Nearly 2,000 years ago, the Roman politician Cicero said "A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all the other virtues."

With that in mind this Thanksgiving holiday, we asked folks in our area what they’re thankful for this year.

Here’s what they had to say.

Jarvis Sanchez, youth pastor Reset Student Ministries at Live Oak Church of God: "I’m thankful for my few friends, church family, our youth leaders and our youth. My hopes for the rest of this year is to continue to reach out to the youth, have an impact in their lives, and for them to stay on the right path."

Long County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Robert Waters: "I am thankful for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and life because I have it far better then I deserve!"

Sara Swida, executive director of Keep Liberty Beautiful: "I’m thankful for living in a community that cares about where they live. I hope everyone can enjoy being with their family as I will enjoy being with mine."

Larry Logan, deputy director of the Liberty County Emergency Management Agency: "I’m most thankful for my family, my wife, children and grandchildren. I’m thankful that we are free and able to live our lives as we choose. I’m thankful for our health and our general wellbeing over wealth and possessions. I’m most thankful for God being in our lives above all. My hope for the rest of the year is there will be peace and not war for America. There will not be any late season hurricanes or natural disasters, that America will come together and begin to heal."

Toriano Gilbert, principal of Bradwell Institute: "I am thankful for the opportunity to serve the Hinesville community. I learned in college at Bethune-Cookman University to ‘Enter to Learn and Depart to Serve.’ I am hoping that all of our students discover their intrinsic motivation for life-long learning."

Anthony Johnson, assistant principal at Joseph Martin Elementary School: "I am thankful for the gift of life, good health and the quality of friendships. I’m thankful for a career which gives me the opportunity to touch countless lives every day through inspiration and motivation. I’m thankful for a family that is always there for me when I call. My hopes for me for the reminder of this year is that I continue to the best son, father, colleague and servant leader I can be. My hopes for others is that they will put aside all their fears and insecurities and hope you find the courage to take risks and make all your dreams come true!"

Patti Crane, Liberty County School System chief academic officer: "I’m thankful for my family, our community, parents, teachers, students in the school system and good health. My hope for the new year is for continued success and high expectations for our school system and continued growth within the Liberty County community."

The Rev. Jim McIntosh, president of the Liberty Regional Homeless Coalition: "I’m thankful for all the wonderful people who step up to help those in need."

Daisy Jones, executive director, Liberty County Reentry Coalition: "I am really thankful for the life privilege of serving with purpose and passion this year."

Shannon Hickey, interim head of school, First Presbyterian Christian Academy: "This year I am most thankful for my family and my community. I could not ask for a better, more amazing family. They are my everything. I also thankful for the Liberty County community. I have lived here for a number of years and cannot imagine living anywhere else."

Bradwell Institute girls’ basketball coach Faye Baker: "I am thankful for my personal relationship with God. I’m thankful for having both of my parents as well as my family and friends. I’m thankful for good health and a sound mind."