The past year has been tough on a lot of Americans. The economy is in the midst of a downward spiral leaving many personal 401K, 403B and IRA investments in the gutter; I don't even open my statements anymore. The number of foreclosures are still increasing at a torrid pace, leaving many displaced. Unemployment is at its highest rate in 5 years. The combination of the three has left many unemployed, homeless and penniless as the holiday season kicked off yesterday. As Americans, however, we have a lot to be thankful for despite the turmoil that our country is going through right now.

Earlier this month, Americans of different races and creeds united together to elect the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama. For the first time in our nation's storied history, we will have a black man sitting in the oval office working for the prosperity of America. About 50 years ago, mass lynchings were still occurring in the south and resentment towards minorities was prevalent in many American homes. Finally, we have turned the page on an ugly past that has plagued our great nation. Thank goodness for that.

As Mr. Obama transitions from President-elect to President, there will be a smooth transition of power. Some elected officials will move on and others will take their place. There will be no bloodshed, no military struggles led by dictators greedy with power. As a united people, we have chosen our next President. Thank goodness for democracy.

Across the shining seas, there are hundreds of thousands of brave American men and women fighting to preserve our freedom and the ideals that we hold so dear. While many do not agree with the war in Iraq, it is important to put personal politics aside and remember that these Americans sacrifice their way of life so that we can choose how we live ours. Thank goodness for these Americans.

As many Americans sat around their tables yesterday filled with turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie, the stress of the economic strife has been weighing on many. Things could be worse. While some have lost everything, a vast majority of Americans are only losing the opportunity of owning luxuries. Remember those who are truly hurting, struggling to feed their children and forgo paying their auto insurance for a second month in lieu of keeping their house warm. Thank goodness for being able to live comfortably.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone. I know that this is a day late, but shouldn't we be giving thanks everyday?