Food, football and fellowship are all hallmarks of Thanksgiving.

Football may stick out on that list for some, but its early association with the holiday is what propelled the popularity of the sport. Now, it is difficult to imagine the season of gratitude without tossing a pigskin or settling in to enjoy one or more of the NFL games broadcast nationally.

It is fitting, since this uniquely American sport brings people together. For me, there is also an even deeper connection that is tied to the wisdom shared by my former coach, Frank Broyles, to my Razorback teammates and me that we should always seek to live our lives as “givers.”

During this season, we not only set aside time to give thanks but also to answer a spirited call of service to others –– strangers and friends alike. These acts indeed can make a difference.

Clearly the most prominent feature of Thanksgiving involves a feast: classic carved turkey and stuffing, green beans and rich mashed potatoes, buttery rolls and deliciously sweet pies. We are truly blessed to live in a nation with diverse agricultural abundance due to the tireless efforts of farmers and ranchers. These hardworking families, including so many in our state, are an integral part of the safe and plentiful food supply that sustains people around the world. In fact, The Natural State takes special pride in serving as the third-largest producer of turkeys in the U.S. 

Yet the hands growing our food are not the only ones we count as blessings, but also the countless others donating meals and their time to volunteer at food banks, soup kitchens and other organizations dedicated to serving those in need. It has been my honor to meet many such volunteers and stewards of charity while representing our state to applaud and celebrate their efforts.

And beyond all this, there is still much to make us thankful. 

We are always grateful for our brave men and women in uniform protecting and preserving our freedoms and way of life. During the holiday season, we especially remember those stationed far from the comfort of their homes and loved ones, including active-duty personnel and members of the Arkansas National Guard. 

Their tremendous sacrifice embodies the act of giving while many of their families also step forward to lead their communities in letter-writing drives for those in uniform, participate in toy donations ahead of Christmas or attend events to honor veterans who have passed away by placing wreaths. 

All over Arkansas and across our country, there are many other things worth pausing to acknowledge in the midst of gathering together to enjoy great food, watch exciting football games and anticipate the upcoming sprint toward the end of the year.

As we prepare to enjoy Thanksgiving itself, let us reflect on the ways that each of us can give back to make giving thanks not just a posture or fleeting feeling, but also an act of service. 

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.