Thanksgiving & Reagan

In his first Thanksgiving proclamation as president, Ronald Reagan wrote:

"America has much for which to be thankful. The unequaled freedom enjoyed by our citizens has provided a harvest of plenty to this Nation throughout its history. In keeping with America's heritage, one day each year is set aside for giving thanks to God for all of His blessings. …

"As we celebrate Thanksgiving … we should reflect on the full meaning of this day as we enjoy the fellowship that is so much a part of the holiday festivities. Searching our hearts, we should ask what we can do as individuals to demonstrate our gratitude to God for all He has done. Such reflection can only add to the significance of this precious day of remembrance.

"Let us recommit ourselves to that devotion to God and family that has played such an important role in making this a great Nation, and which will be needed as a source of strength if we are to remain a great people.
What are you thankful for? A job? A warm home? A loving family? Good health? All of the above, or something completely different? Perhaps it has been a difficult year for you. Loved ones may have passed on or perhaps they are deployed overseas. Perhaps you, like so many others, are struggling in this difficult economy.

In spite of the personal and national challenges we face today, I believe all of us can be thankful to be Americans. We are the descendants of the patriots who declared that "All men are created equal and endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness."
Those words can inspire us still and bring hope to millions around the world. With all of America's problems, we are still the nation that represents man's best hope on earth.