In Theory

Thanksgiving is Nov. 26. What is there to be thankful about, given that the nation still appears to be mired in two foreign wars, thousands more U.S. troops may be on their way to Afghanistan, and tens of thousands of American jobs are being lost every month despite signs that the economy finally is brightening?

Seriously? Somebody woke up on the wrong side of bed, or has no context for global suffering to think that we have it bad. Yes, 10% of Americans are jobless, but 90% are working. Even the homeless have places to find food and occasional shelter. I have been in shanty towns in Africa with human feces on the front doorstep. I have seen naked babies crawling on the streets in Eastern Europe.

I also saw an amazing sunset the other night off the Balboa Pier over a glassy red tide that reached all the way to Catalina, and while we’re amazed at the beauty of our world, a sea lion stirred the incandescent waters below us while playing in the waves. No, this isn’t the world it could be, but it is definitely not nearly as bad as it could be. We have more to be thankful for than most people on this planet, despite all the whining.

Ric Olsen

Lead Pastor

The Beacon

We have much to be thankful for. There has never been a time in the world’s history when we could not point to terrible and trying events.

The scriptures are replete with references that stress gratitude. We should seek out and acknowledge our blessings so we can dwell on them rather than the things that distress us. Taking for granted our many blessings is an affront to God and robs us of the joy we could experience in our lives.

Truly, we have much to be thankful for at this special time of year, and we should take the opportunity to recognize our bounty by assisting those who are less fortunate. This is what makes America great, and we are America!

Tom Thorkelson

Director of Interfaith Relations

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Attitude adjustment may be necessary this year for “anxiety weighs down the human heart, but a good word cheers it up” (Proverbs 12:25) and “Let your attitude be the same as was in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5) is great advice! And, as W.C. Fields said, “Attitude is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than what people do or say. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill.”