My fellow Virgin Islanders this is Governor Charles Turnbull.
As we celebrate Thanksgiving Day 2001, Virgin Islanders should reflect on the wonderful blessings of living in these islands. We are privileged to live in breathtakingly beautiful surroundings. We must be grateful to God that while others struggle to achieve and sustain liberty, we practice human freedom in an environment conducive to democratic principles and values.
We are challenged this Thanksgiving with issues of our own survival. In 2001, the world has been staggered by unprecedented acts of evil and terrorism, rocking the foundation of many lives. As we reflect on these events, let us be resolved to work and live in peace and harmony. Our prayers continue to go out on behalf of the victims and loved ones of the terror of September 11, 2001. We also pray for those who perished in the tragic airplane crash of November 12, 2001. Let us pray for peace and prosperity for all the citizens of the world, recognizing that each life is precious in the sight of God, "The Most High." Let us resolve to build bridges of friendship and love that bind us in a circle of caring and sharing.
As we thank God for our blessings, let us remember the less fortunate and those who are mourning the loss of loved ones. Share a meal with a lonely neighbor. In lifting the less fortunate we demonstrate our commitment to our God, our community, our nation and our families. This year we are especially thankful that we have been spared the ravages of a hurricane or other natural disasters.
Finally, let us reflect with gratitude on those who have gone before us, laying a foundation upon which we must continue to build. Let us also remember in our hearts and prayers the young men and women of the United States Armed Forces and their allies, who are away from their loved ones at this critical time in world history to ensure that we live in peace, safety and freedom. .
May God bless the United States of America, the United States Virgin Islands and all of us.
