By Kevin Sparks, Republican candidate for Texas Senate

My memories of Thanksgiving are with family and friends. As a child I enjoyed several Thanksgiving celebrations with my grandparents in Amarillo. It always afforded us the possibility of snow which we rarely experienced in Midland during the month of November. In later years, Thanksgiving brings memories of large family gatherings with many extended family and friends. Everyone participated by bringing home-cooked dishes to add to the feast. Dallas Cowboys football and late afternoon naps were also part of the yearly ritual. Holiday shopping and community gatherings were part of the long holiday weekend.

As far as communities go, West Texas and the Panhandle have the strongest communities in the state because they are comprised of strong families; families that approach challenges together through hard work and their faith in God; families that can disagree on issues and still come together with mutual love and respect; families that are willing to sacrifice for those around them.

This holiday I am thankful to have been raised in a part of Texas that still has deep pride in our nation and our state. I’m proud to live in a place where a firm handshake still means something, and where our religious convictions are the backbone of our personal integrity.

I pray that your Thanksgiving celebration this year is filled with love, laughter and encouraging conversation.

For Texas,

Kevin Sparks