I just wanted to take a brief moment to wish all of the visitors to BernardGoldberg.com a very happy Thanksgiving. After a particularly contentious election cycle, this holiday provides us with a great opportunity to take a step back from it all, spend some quality time with our loved ones, and reflect on the things that matter most in our lives.

Last night, I visited a friend of mine in the hospital who's recovering from a serious, self-inflicted injury. He's unable to talk or eat at this point, and he has a long road ahead of him, but he's alive and in good spirits. I'm very thankful for that, and also for the amazing strength of his devoted family. They're at his bedside, and their optimism and faith are truly inspiring. I'm incredibly fortunate to have them all in my life.

If you're the praying type, I know they would appreciate your prayers. I would appreciate them too.

It's times like this that remind you of what you have, and what you've been blessed with. Family, personal relationships, and the preciousness of life are far more important than the political differences and grievances that so often divide us. It's important to keep that in mind, and put such things into perspective.

I sincerely hope you all have a safe, warm Thanksgiving. I'll be back with a new column later in the week. God bless.