Thanksgiving is more than a holiday, it’s a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the things that truly matter. In Minnesota, gratitude is a shared value that transcends politics, backgrounds, and geography. Whether you’re in the heart of the Twin Cities, a suburb by the lake, or in a small town surrounded by prairies, the act of giving thanks connects us, reminding us of the ties that bind us as Minnesotans.

Gratitude is inherently communal. It asks us to look beyond ourselves, to recognize the people, places, and resources that sustain us. This year, as we gather with family, friends, and neighbors, we can consider how our shared appreciation for Minnesota’s land, air, and water reflects a deeper commitment to stewardship. Cleaning up a local park, volunteering at a food shelf, or simply checking in on a neighbor are all expressions of giving thanks that strengthen our communities.

Gratitude as a Bridge Across Differences

In a time when it’s easy to focus on what divides us, gratitude serves as a bridge. By focusing on what we share, our love of the outdoors, our commitment to family and friends, and our pride in Minnesota’s unique natural places, we create opportunities for connection and trust. Thanksgiving can be a chance to model civility and generosity, to listen and engage across difference, and to celebrate the civic fabric that makes Minnesota resilient.

Practicing Environmental and Community Stewardship

Gratitude also extends to our stewardship of the natural world. Many Minnesotans express thanks by caring for the land that nourishes and inspires us. From raking leaves into compost piles to protecting pollinator habitats before winter, acts of environmental stewardship are a tangible way to honor the gifts of the season. These practices connect us to both the present moment and the long-term health of our communities.

A Shared Minnesotan Tradition

Ultimately, Thanksgiving reminds us that gratitude is both personal and collective. It’s a value that shapes Minnesotans’ approach to life, encouraging reflection, care, and generosity. Whether through a shared meal, a volunteer project, or a quiet moment of appreciation for nature, the ways we express gratitude unite us in purpose and spirit.

This year, let Thanksgiving be more than a day on the calendar. Let it be a moment to strengthen the bonds that make Minnesota special, through gratitude, care, and stewardship. By recognizing what we share, we can celebrate the richness of our communities and the enduring beauty of the state we call home.