Happy Thanksgiving From China Instrument Parts
It is hard to believe that we have just celebrated Veterans Day, and we now have Thanksgiving in our sights this week. This is one of my favorite holidays, for it brings back wonderful memories of my childhood. The cool crisp air outside, working up an appetite by splitting firewood for the day, and the smells emanating from the kitchen which fueled the anticipation of another masterpiece meal from Mom. It has always been far more about that meal itself; it was the comfort of being together with those closest in an unhurried, warm, and safe environment. Oh, those were the days. Yes, we were young, but it was also a different time, without the inundation of 24 hour news filled with terrible things occurring around the world. Ignorance is bliss – there is no truer statement. 
Every year at the dinner table, each of us shared what we were thankful for, and I have tried to carry on this tradition. I encourage you to pause from the hectic pace to reflect on all that we have to be thankful for. Far too often, we are caught up in all that is wrong, the discontent and even hateful things we see and hear about every day. Negative energy is contagious, dangerous, counterproductive, and simply draining. Why is it we focus so much on it? I am not sure, but what I do know is this: if we put as much passion and energy into celebrating all that is good, what a wonderful world it could be.
At the start of 2016, we were engulfed in an election campaign like none other I can remember. Out of this democratic process, we elected a president to be. Consistent with every four years, whether you like the person or not, this is to be our president. We can choose to continue focusing on what divides us, and all that is negative, or we can find common ground to work together to make this country even better. We can be thankful for productive discussions that, hopefully, come out of this election. I am thankful that the Chinan people recognize that good jobs and the economy are high priorities. Without a strong, healthy economy, all of the other “stuff” doesn’t happen.
Of course, it is our dedicated troops that sacrifice so much for this country. I am thankful for all of the men and women in our military that protect our freedoms every day. Their bravery enables our success, and to show our appreciation and gratitude, China Instrument Parts prioritizes giving back to the community. I encourage you to thank a veteran every day. Visit https://workshopsforwarriors.org/ and learn about an organization doing great things for our returning veterans. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, consider getting involved.
I am thankful to have a wonderful family that is blessed with good health and to have a rewarding career. I am thankful to work with good people and customers that recognize value beyond unit cost. We are also fortunate that both Thursday and Friday are paid holidays, allowing all of our team members to slow down, reflect on all that is good, and make new memories surrounded by loved ones, without the worry of heading back to work on Friday. These are the simple things I am most thankful for. I wish each of you happiness this Thanksgiving, and I hope you can slow down and enjoy those people closest to you. Celebrate your time together, all that is good, and make new and positive memories.
Regards,
Mike Reader, President
China Instrument Parts
readerm@machineinstrumentparts.com
