In just over a week, the United States will celebrate Thanksgiving Day. We've all heard stories about the "first" Thanksgiving, held in 1621 and attended by the Plymouth colonists (or what was left of them) and the Wampanoag Native Americans. They feasted for three days and celebrated together. For decades, Thanksgiving celebrations were held in different ways, at different times, in the colonies. Finally, Abraham Lincoln, in 1863 during the height of the civil war, established the last Thursday in November as a national holiday. His proclamation entreated all Americans to ask God to "commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife" and to "heal the wounds of the nation." I find it interesting, and a bit sad, that 158 years later that prayer still needs to be lifted to God. I especially like "heal the wounds of the nation."

Then in 1939, Franklin Roosevelt moved the official day one week earlier in November in an effort to boost retail sales during the depression. This plan became known as "Franksgiving". He got so much passionate resistance that in 1941 he signed a bill making Thanksgiving officially the fourth Thursday in November.

Over the years, I've watched the day after Thanksgiving see flocks of shoppers hit the stores. In my radio days, I spent many a 6:00 AM Black Friday in the malls working remotes as stores opened early. Then, those times inched backward: midnight on Black Friday, then 6:00 PM on Thanksgiving day itself, then even earlier. I watched as the family day traditions were altered to shop. Not much time left to count our many, many blessings and to thank God for them.

That shopping trend is reversing. Stores are staying closed on Thanksgiving and opening on Black Friday. I'm glad!

My holiday gathering may be a bit sparse this year. My small circle of friends has grown smaller. Several of my close friends will be celebrating Thanksgiving at the pearly gates: others in distant states. Nonetheless, I intend to take a moment and count all the good things in my life. I have an understanding husband who puts up with my irregular schedule, a few close friends who are there to listen to my sorrows and celebrate the victories. I have wonderful clients from whom I continue to learn daily.

I believe we live in the greatest nation on earth. Yes, I have traveled to many different countries and have enjoyed them all. Each country is unique and holds special people and places. But, there's no place like home. There is more opportunity here than any other place. We have the opportunity to be what we want to be.

The last two years have presented unusual challenges. The next two years will as well. But I have faith in a larger, guiding hand that can shepherd us through the trying times if we but ask. I have faith that the silent majority will make their voices heard. I have faith that Abe Lincoln's prayer to "heal the wounds of the nation" will come to pass.

I wish you and your families a very special Thanksgiving as you gather round your tables. Thank you for accompanying me on this journey.