By Rep. Sharon Tyler, R-Niles

Sometimes a few words carry a lot of wisdom, and, at this time of the year, one of my favorite quotes by ‘unknown’ says it all:

“Gratitude consists of being more aware of what you have, than what you don’t.”

With the Thanksgiving holiday around the corner, it is a good time to take stock of what people, places and things in your life deserve gratitude.

Writing this at the tail end of an election season, and following Veterans Day, I am reminded of something I am deeply thankful for every day of my life — my freedoms as an American.

Voting, living in a country that honors the many men and women who have given their lives for our freedoms, and having the opportunity to serve as your state representative are all at the top of this gratitude list.

Although invariably some people will always be disappointed with the results of national or local elections, it is time now to come together as a country to count our blessings and remind ourselves to be thankful for the big picture. As Americans, our right to vote is a great and wonderful gift.

Casting a vote is exciting way to participate in our democracy — and something we all must be grateful for.

In addition to living in a great country, I am also thankful for being blessed with so many wonderful friends and family members — many whom I was not able to see as much as I would’ve liked to during this busy election season.

If your family is anything like mine, you are looking forward to sitting across the dining table from some of your favorite people and thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to talk, laugh and eat together one more time.  Here’s to an attitude of gratitude this Thanksgiving. Enjoy!

I look forward to hearing your comments on these important issues. Please feel free to contact me by calling 1-888-373-0078 or emailing sharontyler@house.mi.gov.