Today’s Thanksgiving observance should represent an opportunity to express our feelings of gratitude for the blessings we have received, rather than yearning for the things we do not have.
This has been a trying year for many of us. Financial pressures have added many unaccustomed to having to do with less to the growing numbers of the poor and hungry in our country. As they struggle to make ends meet, we hope they will also see the silver lining around their cloud. Times such as these often bring us closer to family and friends who can provide a much-needed shoulder to lean on.
Financial pressures are not the only challenges facing our country these days.
The war in Afghanistan is resulting in a greater number of deaths, both in our military and among innocent civilians. Through it all, members of our armed forces have persevered, even as a growing number of Americans doubt the necessity of their mission. Nonetheless, we are blessed that those who have dedicated their lives to ensuring our country’s safety know their duty and perform it faithfully.
Our homeless population has grown to unacceptable numbers, but it is wonderful to recognize the large number of good Samaritans who strive to house and feed their fellow citizens.
While the numbers of people slain on our streets still shocks most of us, for the most part, our children can still play in our parks and even on some of our local streets. The majority of our schools are still a port in the storm, a safe haven for many students.
Our churches are sill open for weekly services and there are still those who continue to dedicate their lives to the service of humanity with clarity and dignity.
So our blessings in this country are many and it would do us well to focus on them and not the trials of life, at least for today.
Peace and blessings to all of you, and may you share this Thanksgiving in safety, and with hope in a better tomorrow.
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