Let’s still give thanks

One would have to be delusional not to recognize all the problems we face as we head into 2009. For the first time I can remember, talk of a depression is not limited to the lunatic fringe. Still, amid the gloom, this is the time of year to give thanks.

One would have to be delusional not to recognize all the problems we face as we head into 2009. For the first time I can remember, talk of a depression is not limited to the lunatic fringe.
The stock market already has destroyed the retirement dreams of millions of Americans, and the worst probably isn’t over. Government bailouts are coming so furiously that we can’t keep track of where hundreds of billions of dollars have gone — or how much Uncle Sam owes.
Still, amid the gloom, this is the time of year to give thanks.
First, we must give thanks for being citizens of this wonderful country. America is not Utopia, and critics of all leanings love to find fault, but I still get misty when I think of my immigrant grandparents’ pride in becoming citizens of a nation that offered them — and continues to offer us — so much freedom and opportunity. How many countries are there where the reins of power not only turn over peacefully but where winners and losers appear on national television and joke about themselves?
Defending our freedoms are the brave members of our armed forces. We may disagree on how and where they are deployed, but we must give thanks to them for all they have done. And let us not forget them when they return from service and need us most.
Let’s give thanks to the police officers, firefighters, emergency workers and nurses who come to our rescue wherever and whenever they are called — sometimes at grave risk to themselves.
In the personal realm, and particularly in these frightening economic times, let those of us who are working give thanks for having a place to go each morning and earn a livelihood. Those of us at Crain Communications should be particularly thankful for working at a company that respects its employees and truly puts its readers first.
Finally, let’s give thanks to our family and friends. They are the ones who fill our lives with color, texture, warmth and love.
Whether or not we believe there is a recipient of our thanks, the act of being thankful, I feel, is worthy in itself.