Be thankful for First Amendment Witness how these very rights are mission-critical to this community in addressing how to handle the benefits and costs of people from across the globe needing permanent residency here.

Times Editorial Board | SCTimes

America's five big freedoms — of religion, of speech, of the press, the freedom to assemble peaceably, and the freedom to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

More than any recent memory, these are rights for which Central Minnesota should be especially thankful as we mark Thanksgiving 2015.

Witness how these very rights are mission-critical to this community — and in the wake of the Paris attacks, all of America — in addressing how to handle the benefits and costs of people from across the globe needing permanent residency here.

Of religion

That many of the newest members of this community practice Islam is undoubtedly a core reason the St. Cloud metro area is struggling to accept their new neighbors.

Rather than get to know these people and their individual beliefs and religious practices, too many Christians are assuming the extremist actions of terrorists half a world away reflect on all members of the faith. As adroitly stated via social media recently, that is akin to saying the actions and beliefs of the KKK represent all Christians.

The reality for many of these refugees is they have come to America so they would not be killed for practicing Islam in the way they choose.

Of speech and the press

Words have meaning, and as seen from street corners to views expressed on these pages, those words can be powerful no matter if they are intended to harm or heal. Yet they also are critical for the community to move forward.

The challenge for all of us is to choose words that advance the discussion in positive ways, not drive people farther apart. Remember, in the land of the free, we are free to live as we choose — just let others do the same.

Assemble peaceably

This community has seen its share of rallies, protests and contentious meetings since the last time we gathered around the Thanksgiving table. The good news is such assembling has been mostly peaceful. Or at least not violent. Here's hoping such gatherings continue to be that way.

Petition the government

Two centuries ago, "petitioning the government for a redress of grievances" literally meant what said. Now, though, it may be more appropriately described as a coalescing of all First Amendment rights.

Petitions certainly are effective, legal and peaceful tools that show disagreement with any branch of government. But the same goes for everything from writing letters to filing lawsuits. Not to mention voting for candidates who vow to change those parts of government with which you disagree.

Happy Thanksgiving.