We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality , tied in a single garment of destiny .
Yet there are those who would divide us , but we will not allow them to prevail .
We cherish and defend democracy and pluralism as bedrock foundations for America ’ s future .
We reject denigration and exclusion and embrace elevation and inclusion .
We pray that You , God , will be with us , as we join together in fixing the broken and fulfilling the promise of a healed world .
Turn us toward you , God , and we will return to You ; renew us on this day of Thanksgiving . Amen .
Let us frame our time together with questions .
In our world of polarization and political grandstanding , we recognize the value of asking rather than telling , of listening to each other ’ s answers instead of jumping to conclusions . Questions open conversations . They allow us to hear others . They allow us to refine our own thinking .
You cannot shake hands with a clenched fist .
INDIRA GANDHI
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