On Thursday, most of us will gather around a feast with family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving, a time we have set aside to show gratitude for all we have.

But the holiday really goes further than just voicing appreciation. We should also examine how we are using all the many blessings and talents we have been given.

Anyone needing inspiration for that should look no further than Selma businessman Daryl Thomas, who opened an accounting practice on Broad Street this past weekend.

It’s the realization of a dream he has been working for since he was in college at the University of Alabama.

Thomas has cerebral palsy but doesn’t let that limit his goals. He certainly doesn’t use it as an excuse either, though the disability would have been a perfectly acceptable one.

“It’s a dream come true,” Thomas said inside his office Saturday. “When I was in school, I decided then that I wanted to have my own business and run my own firm. It took 20 years but I finally got to where I want to be.”

Thomas’ story is powerful reminder of the importance of preservation and hard work. Congratulations to Thomas and his family on this outstanding accomplishment.

He’s an inspiration to not only his family but the entire community.