As you gather with family and friends Thanksgiving Day, it may be easy &045; despite the reason for the holiday &045; to forget those people and things for which you should be thankful.

Given the state of the world &045; with troops stationed far from home, people with no place to live, a less-than-lively economy, and other world, state and community issues, don’t forget to give thanks for the little things you enjoy.

Those troops are protecting our freedoms as well as establishing freedom to an oppressed people. You have a place to live and even a bit of money left after the bills are paid.

More importantly, you are enjoying turkey with family and friends. As family politics play out, you might wonder why you invited that one difficult family member, but for this day, be thankful they are with you &045; the alternative would leave a hole in your life and even your heart.

And if you have extra, please share it with others who don’t have enough. This can be a depressing time of the year for those experiencing difficult times.