Last Friday we participated in a retreat where we were asked where our families came from and what lessons did we learn. Many of us are first generation Americans with families hailing from all over Europe and many different religions.

In my family, I am 3rd generation American on my Father’s side and 1st generation on my Mother’s side. My Father’s family is from Germany, my Mother’s from Russia. Both sides left their respective countries due to religious persecution and both families became self-employed when they came to North America. My Father’s family immigrated to Tennessee and my Mother’s came to the U.S. by way of Canada when she was in elementary school. For both sides of my family, to be an American was the ultimate dream.

What I learned from them is that no matter what your religion or country of origin – we are Americans. Having a strong sense of heritage is important but first and foremost, we are Americans. As Americans, we work hard and we do not expect anything to be given to us but we do give back to our community. Love of family and country and the freedom to pursue our dreams is what we have to be thankful for. Happy Thanksgiving to you & yours.

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