For the majority of Americans living today, there is so much to be thankful for. Because most of us don't have to go to really heroic lengths to achieve a decent standard of living, it is so easy to take the many advantages we have as Americans for granted. We easily forget the bigger picture and continually whine about the smaller stuff. The vicious "us versus them" mentality that has seeped into our systems is stifling and sickening. If America were a lifeboat, we the passengers would be knocking each other overboard and in the process sinking the vessel. Each and every one of us needs to take stock and see all that we can have gratitude for.
Call him sentimental. Call him sappy. I call him a very excellent artist who reflected his times. Normal Rockwell illustrated many virtues of our society.
We can gather to say thanks for all we have: family and bounty.
We can feel free to express ourselves in our own unique style.
We can express ourselves using our bodies as we wish.
We can pray as we wish, or not.
We have a voice.
We can fill any role that we are capable of.
We have the opportunity to learn from history.
We have the opportunity to learn from our mistakes.
We have the opportunity to acquire a formal education.
We can love whomever we want.
Most of us can feel a measure of safety in our lives.
If things go well for us, we can have leisure time.
We can dream.
We have those who want to help us look after ourselves.
There are so many opportunities for gratitude - glass half full and all that stuff. It is such a simple way to make life a better experience. Happy Thanksgiving.
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