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Thankfulness Amidst Change: A Thanksgiving Reflection from Vermont
As the country faces the aftermath of the 2024 presidential election, many individuals find it challenging to feel thankful, especially with the recent nominations for key agency positions drawing criticism for perceived lack of qualifications. Yet, Bob Stannard, a columnist for The Manchester Journal, encourages Vermonters to reflect on their lives and the comparative global context of living conditions.
Stannard points out that Vermonters reside in a relatively safe state, with access to clean air and water—resources becoming increasingly compromised elsewhere. However, he highlights the alarming statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau, revealing that about 10% of Vermonters live in poverty, while economic disparity grows. As affluent newcomers move in, housing prices soar, pushing out local families and altering the fabric of communities.
Recalling his childhood in South Dorset, Stannard fondly remembers a community where individuals from varying socioeconomic backgrounds coexisted harmoniously. Despite changing times, he reflects on how wealth was less of a defining factor for friendship and community ties. Yet, today, he worries about the erosion of such connections amid rising wealth inequality—a national issue with no easy solution in sight.
Stannard emphasizes that Vermonters are resilient. While life is becoming more challenging, the essence of a good life remains rooted in family, safety, and community rather than financial status. This Thanksgiving, he expresses gratitude for the unique qualities of Vermont, underscoring the importance of valuing these relationships above material wealth.
In a rapidly changing landscape, Stannard’s reflections serve as a poignant reminder to appreciate the simpler, yet profound aspects of life, especially during the Thanksgiving season.
Source
Photo credit www.manchesterjournal.com
