THANKS: Blessings flow on reflection

At this time of the year when one might begin to contemplate the things for which they are thankful for, I have begun to count my blessings and in the tally found that they are many.

I have worried about the direction in which our great country has been going, I have been rightfully worried that we were witnessing the end of this “shining light on the hill” and that it would be turned into a place of social and spiritual desolation. However, the recent turn of events that have begun to churn in the bowels of the movement that might have destroyed 200 years of sacrifice of our citizens’ treasury and blood will likely not succeed. For this I am grateful.

I participated in a movement that included 50,000 fellow Idahoans to change the penalties portion of our animal cruelty laws, and although the system for effecting that change is constructed to prevent citizens from working their will on their legislators is assembled in such a fashion to prevent it from becoming reality, it is the spark that will eventually bring the haughtiness of our legislature to its knees one day, and that too is something I am grateful to have taken part in.

On a personal note, I have been blessed to have encountered some of the most dedicated and decent people among my fellow citizens. I have grown spiritually and have developed a greater desire to oppose evil and support what is right. I have come to appreciate my small circle of friends as well as like-minded acquaintances who are steadfast in the pursuit of righteousness. I have found gratitude infused into my love for my wife as my life partner.

God Bless America!

TONY MANGAN

Spirit Lake