Objects of Thankfulness

Letters to the editor in the Kansas City Star's Thanksgiving Day issue all had the same subject, what the writer was thankful for. Reviewing all 22 letters, I found that the leading sentiment mentioned in one form or another was for other people, mostly family, but also friends, co-workers, and others who did nice things. More than half (12) of the writers named essentials of life, i.e., home, food, job; just ahead of the general group of feelings (10) for a religious deity, a church community, and communal expressions of love and kindness. Thanks for health and life itself was in fourth place (9). Our country, and its corollary, the right to vote, was next in prominence (8). Other objects mentioned once or twice included a pet, a hobby, self, school, pleasures, conveniences, cultural activities and diversions. There were really no surprises. I am thankful for all of those things, although I might put them in a different order of importance. The important thing is to acknowledge one's appreciation for the beneficence of life and return the favors that are bestowed on you by others, The Golden Rule.