Why I Give Thanks

Its the time of year where many of us prepare a list of the things for which we give thanks. I love Thanksgiving, it may be my favorite holiday. Its probably not the most spiritually important, Easter, or historically important, 4th of July, but it has real meaning for me. Besides it has everything: great food, good friends, family, football, a long weekend, more football, great leftovers and real issues to contemplate. That's all great and a little bit irreverent. But I want to be a bit more serious.

I believe that my "thanks" can all be rolled up into one sentence. I thank God that I was born in this time and this place in human history. America, which I believe has been divinely inspired, is the basis for all the things that I am thankful for.

America permits me to learn of my God and my place in His plans without interference from King, President or Great Leader.

America permits me to learn, explore, raise and improve myself for my own gain and my own reasons.

America permits me to fail or succeed and fail and succeed again based upon my own merits and work.

America permits me an unimaginable standard of living that is plentiful in food and housing and comfort.

The great promise of America has given me all that I am thankful for. I am thankful to be an American with freedom to worship, think, learn and work the way that I want.

Mr. Flannery