Published November 2005 — Download PDF of the original newspaper column
Byrd's-Eye View By U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd In Thanksgiving
As communities along the Gulf Coast clean up from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, as Florida reels from yet another hurricane, as casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan soar, and as scandal engulfs the White House, it might seem difficult to find anything to be thankful for on this Thanksgiving. Many families' prospects for rebuilding the lives they once knew are uncertain, but there is hope. There is also much to celebrate as Americans gather for Thanksgiving. We may be thankful that the loss of life from those hurricanes was not greater. We can celebrate the support that erupted from Americans and from friends around the world. The public response to the Gulf Coast disasters proved that the nation's sense of community remains strong. In Iraq, we can celebrate the performance of our troops. Whatever the circumstances under which they were sent, the U.S. military has performed their duties with courage and dedication under the most dangerous conditions. Even the scandal washing over the President's closest advisors may give cause for celebration, and not for partisan reasons. Americans may be thankful for our system of government with its checks and balances. We may celebrate the wisdom of guaranteeing freedom of expression and a free press. Without those guarantees, Ambassador Wilson could not have told the truth about his mission to Niger. We can be grateful that the Constitution's checks and balances remain a strong tool for oversight and accountability. That is what keeps this country strong. President Abraham Lincoln said, "Let the people know the truth and the country is safe." Whatever the final outcome of these investigations, the nation is safer and better off for having the means to challenge possible abuses of power. So, even in these dark days, there are reasons to give thanks. I hope the recent dip in gasoline prices will allow families to gather together and set a table overflowing with home-cooked food. There are few days devoted entirely to family. Thanksgiving is the one time we can really focus on all that we have to be thankful for just by looking around the table. Erma joins me in wishing a happy Thanksgiving to all West Virginians. May each of you be blessed this Thanksgiving. November 16, 2005