Ralph Jones of South Side, semi-retired: “I almost died in 2014 from pneumonia. I’m doing better now. I thank God for my good health and somewhat decent spirits during the holidays.”

Sonia Corporan of the West End, a marketing specialist: “I moved to Richmond about 10 years ago from New York. I’m thankful for my friends in Richmond that have pretty much adopted me into their families. “I’m also grateful that I have the opportunity do what I love on my job, which is write and prepare materials and produce curriculum for classes.”

Brandon Davis of Mechanicsville, an IT technician: “I’m thankful for my family, my good health and that my mind is right. And I feel that better things are coming, including the fact that I’ve started my own IT company, Elite Diamond Technologies in Hanover.”

Julie Morris of South Side: “I’m thankful for health, friends and family. I’m also thankful for my safety, particularly with so much talk about terrorists and immigrants that could mean harm to us. I think we’re very safe here in the United States. I think you’re more likely to get killed by a car than by a terrorist attack.”

Raymond Palmer of Henrico County, attorney: “I’m thankful for my church, Oak Grove Baptist Church in King William County, and my salvation. I’m also grateful for my law practice.”

Deborah Keith of Yorktown: “I’m thankful for my family, my faith and my health and that I got out of bed this morning. I’m also grateful that my son, who was actively doing drugs, has turned the corner on that.”