Today I checked out some DVDs from the library, and, as I was walking out, I suddenly realized how grateful I am that the library is there for me, and for all of us. Think of it: a building that holds countless (in the tens of thousands, I’m sure) books, magazines, newspapers, and discs, all available for borrowing – free of charge! It’s a remarkable gift to all the people in Rhode Island, an openhanded endowment that provides bountiful rewards each day and will continue doing so into perpetuity. In the library, I’m like a child in a toy store, and all the items are free. How did I get this lucky?

I also realized today (as I often have) how fortunate I am to have both a police and fire department in my town. There are innumerable places in the world where neither exist, and consequently the people live in unvarying fear. I know, with no doubt whatsoever, that when danger threatens our community, the valiant men and women of the police and fire departments will come to our aid. I know they’re on 24-hour watch, waiting for the slightest threatening sign. It’s easy to sleep peacefully in a town like ours, and I’m enormously thankful for that.