It is a tragedy that a day that was once remembered as a way to show gratitude and thanks, has turned into another way for businesses to make a quick buck and people to hunt down deals. Frankly, anyone who takes place in those activities should be ashamed of themselves. Thanksgiving is a day to be thankful for what you already have, not to think about what else you need in your life.

As a nation, we have moved so far from what this country was originally founded on – a country of morals, values, and yes, even God. When you throw those things out the window, you get what we have now – a dysfunctional country where common sense is no longer the norm and a place you’re worried about your children’s safety in. Isn’t is pathetic that we can’t even keep the one day of the year that is meant to be about family and gratitude “sacred” without it being tainted by material greed?

The condition of the heart determines the character of the person. Gratitude and thanksgiving lie at the very root of joy and happiness. But a world that is scared of the eternal looks to the external to mend its wounds and finds no contentment. We find real meaning in life by looking at the things that are not bought, but freely given – things like family, love, friendship, and faith.

As tainted as it’s become, America is still the best country in the world, and we should all be grateful to live here. It is by looking at how the less fortunate around the world live that we truly see how lucky we are. The things that we take for granted here are miracles in many parts of the world. We all have a tendency to expect that life should be perfect and without suffering. When our outlook never matches reality, we can easily become discouraged and even feel life owes us something. It is only by looking at life as it is, with all the joy, pain, and suffering, that we can begin to see how blessed we are.

I pray that tonight when I’m eating my Thanksgiving meal, I’ll remember that there are many on the street going without food, without shelter, and without water. Remember that there are millions across the world starving to death, millions who don’t have running water, and millions dying from disease, leaving their young children as orphans. Remember that there are millions who can’t practice their own religion or beliefs without fear, millions living in mental, drug, or sex slavery, and millions living without a family or anyone who loves them. My life is far from perfect, but when I remember to keep the proper perspective, the only logical response my heart can give is thanks and gratitude. May you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

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