Tomorrow we give thanks.
It seems like a long time ago when we were able to set aside politics and petty differences to focus on what was good about our lives. On Thanksgiving we get that chance. We pray to our God, or thank our lucky stars, or just sit in quiet contemplation to give thanks for what we have.
And despite the negativism that permeated our shared consciousness over the last couple of years, there is plenty to be thankful for.
Be thankful that we are protected by the most noble and capable fighting force ever seen on earth. The Greatest Generation protected us during WWII and Korea; this generation has the same mettle, and has proven the naysayers wrong. Bombarded with lower expectations and a reputation for demanding nothing short of instant gratification, these young men and women have fought a difficult and prolonged war with grace and honor. And they’re winning, even when our leaders prophesized failure. Be thankful for our armed forces.
Look around you. Your lifestyle is superior to all but a tiny fraction of the world’s population. Collectively, the American way of life is still the envy of the world. Don’t believe me? Get stationed overseas sometime. Be thankful you’re an American.
Remember patriotism? It’s still there, and it’s still strong. We just never hear about it. Just seven short years ago, our country was galvanized by a horrible act of violence wrought by hateful madmen. But instead of collapsing into dispair or chaos, we rallied together as one nation. Look at some old videos of flag-waving mourners, or the prayer service at Washington National Cathedral on September 14, 2001 and you’ll be reminded that patriotism still runs deep and strong through our veins. Embrace that feeling, because it defines us as a people.
You have loved ones – family, friends, comrades in arms. How lonely this world would be without them. On Thanksgiving, let them know what they mean to you. Be thankful for what they have added to your life.
Yes, we have a lot for which to be thankful. Thanksgiving gives us the opportunity to remember it all.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.
