Don't sweat the small stuff; try to appreciate it

In economic terms-because this is the way happiness often is judged-the past year brought a mixed bag for local residents. Ownership of a home still remains a pipe dream for many, and rents continue to rise unabated. And while gasoline prices have eased somewhat, the cost of owning a car will always be a burden. As for insurance, if you think health premiums are expensive now, just wait. They'll go even higher as the population gets older. Will your wages keep pace?

Being able to afford emergencies is another major worry. Few are prepared for these unexpected expenses. Then there's retirement. Most people have come to the realization that they'll be forced to work longer and do with less by the time their golden years arrive.

All in all, it's not a bright scenario.

So what exactly are we giving thanks for on this, the oldest of American holidays?

The answer is easy.

Take time on this Thanksgiving weekend and the holiday season to appreciate the little things, the stuff we often taken for granted.

Unlike millions of people around the globe, we go to sleep at night with a roof over our head and wake up to find food on the table. We live in a beautiful environment and have the freedom to move about as we please. Our children attend some of the best public schools in America and spiritually we're able to worship the way we want.

Despite what the rest of the world currently thinks, we live in a wonderful, forward-thinking country. We're rich beyond words.

During this Thanksgiving weekend, count your blessings, no matter how small they may be. And if you think you haven't much to be thankful for, why not be thankful for some of the things you don't have? We're lucky in ways we'll never know.

Rich in spirit-that's what really counts.