Reasons to be thankful

By A TIMES EDITORIAL
Published November 22, 2007

For all Americans

1. Even in a time of war and political division, we still settle our differences with nonviolent debate and elections.

2. Despite dislocations in the housing and financial markets, the economy has shown remarkable resilience and most Americans still own a home and have a job.

3. You live in a country where many are trying to get in and few want to leave.

4. If you're at the dinner table surrounded by family and friends, you're already ahead in the game.

5. Young men and women still love their country enough to risk their lives defending it.

For Floridians

1. No hurricanes this year.

2. No blizzards, either, and we put salt on our fresh winter tomatoes instead of our roads.

3. Our state leaders may not have fixed our insurance and tax problems, but they're still trying.

4. You live in a state that despite its problems has more people lined up at the entrance than the exit.

5. Young Floridians still love their country enough to risk their lives defending it.

For Tampa Bay residents

1. Even many of the homeless probably will be eating turkey today because of your community's generosity.

2. In addition to no blizzards, we have spectacular beaches, lakes, rivers and parks that can be used nearly any day of the year.

3. You live in an area of the state that wouldn't be so crowded if it wasn't a great place to work, have fun and raise a family.

4. Tomorrow is another day ... and there will be leftovers.

5. Young Tampa Bay residents still love their country enough to risk their lives defending it. Let's be thankful all over again when they come home safely.

[Last modified November 22, 2007, 00:34:58]