I would like to sincerely thank the Christian pastors in Fountain Hills for all of their hard work in creating a very special memory for so many at the Fountain Hills Community Thanksgiving Service last Tuesday evening.

The music was beautiful, the prayers were heartfelt and the message by Rev. Dr. Cathy Northrup was very meaningful.

Rev. Dr. Northrup’s message really hit home about the importance of “Thank you notes.” In this fast, “text induced” world, the handwritten, stamped and snail mailed thank you notes seem to go out the window...with very few writing them.

When I receive one it is very, very special and is remembered by me for a long time. Obviously this is a secular concept...but it deals with kindness, love, goodness and joy when someone takes the time to do this and handwrite a note.

What isn’t secular is Rev. Dr. Northrup’s main message...”Choose thanks in all circumstances -- be a living Thank You note to God” by praising Him, worshiping Him and showing reverence for His word by living a life filled with righteousness and gratitude.

Psalm 145 is firmly embedded in my heart, mind and soul after this special service.

Regarding this special night...Pastors, “well done, thy good and faithful servants!” Those in attendance at the Presbyterian Church were truly blessed by this service. It was a wonderful way to begin the holiday weekend and an incredible reminder of the power of thanks and giving.