The Highest Appreciation

In his 1963 Thanksgiving proclamation, President John F. Kennedy stated: 

Today we give our thanks, most of all, for the ideals of honor and faith we inherit from our forefathers--for the decency of purpose, steadfastness of resolve and strength of will, for the courage and the humility, which they possessed and which we must seek every day to emulate. As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.

On this Thanksgiving eve, we recognize the 60th Anniversary of the assassination of President Kennedy. It was a moment forever changing our country. In many ways, we never recovered. Of course, I was not alive in 1963. But his legacy of service lives on from generation to generation. He called for a new generation of Americans to step up and serve. It is a call I feel in every inch of my soul. 

President Kennedy’s grave at Arlington National Cemetery. (Photo: MK Feeney)

I spent part of the last week in Washington, D.C., and went to pay my respects at Arlington National Cemetery. There was much to reflect upon as I stood there, watching the eternal flame flicker. I thought about my own service; What is my call? How can I dig into my courage and humility more in service?  

As we give thanks tomorrow, may we also reflect on not only the blessings in our lives but on these questions and what more can we do to show appreciation to those in our community and live our values. 

Thank you to those in Framingham who show their gratitude for our community in their every day service, from volunteers on city boards and commissions, to elected officials, and hard working staff in the Memorial Building. Thank you to our educators and school staff for guiding our youth. Heartfelt appreciation to Framingham Firefighters and the Framingham Police Department for keeping us safe. 

Special acknowledgement to our doctors and nurses at Framingham Union, who despite tough odds are doing their best to give their patients the best care. 

Thank you to the countless individuals who volunteer for various organizations and nonprofits. Thank you to mentors and coaches. 

Today let us recommit ourselves to answering President Kennedy’s call from six decades ago. Our city and nation needs more individuals guided by a belief in the goodness of community, a willingness to serve, and the ability to stand true in their courage. 

My deepest gratitude to those of you who heard the call. You are all the heart and soul of Framingham.  

Let us continue the work.

From my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving. 

Believe in Framingham, 

-Mary Kate