Count blessings, even in hard times

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Updated: December 26, 2011 8:25AM

Some might argue it’s really hard to find anything to be thankful for this year. People are out of work, losing their homes, struggling to put food on the table or gas in the cars; that is, if the vehicles haven’t been repossessed.

But that’s the really ugly thing about dwelling on the negative, isn’t it? After a while, we mire ourselves so deep in what’s wrong, we no longer appreciate the love, laughter and goodness all around us. Too often, our negativity becomes a tragic self-fulfilling prophesy.

Most people won’t air their hardships publicly, but perhaps today, as we sit down at table, we can pause and give thanks for the many blessings we share as a country.

Donald Shepherd, Highland: “We need to give thanks for all the people in our churches and communities who volunteer to help others in need. I recently drove my cousin to a nearby food pantry to help stretch his unemployment when it wouldn’t quite reach the end of the month.

“Man, that was so hard for him. He’s a proud man and always has been really self-sufficient. The people there made him feel really comfortable — very compassionate, yet respectful.

“I’m thankful for people who help, and I want them to know how much they inspire me to find a way I can help others. We’re all in this journey together, right?”

Suzanne Korich, Merrillville: “I think we should be more thankful for our freedom. So many people complain about all that’s wrong with our country, yet forget that our great freedom is what allows them to voice their opinions.

“Even in politics today, everyone is so focused on finger-pointing and slinging mud at their opponents, our government never seems to get anything done anymore. It’s just one big fight after another.

“We need to be thankful for the wonderful resources we share, and work harder together to get past our differences and seriously address our what needs to be done.”

Bonita Sawyer, Schererville: “Don’t you think we take the beauty of our land for granted? How many other countries enjoy two oceans, mountains, the Great Plains, the Grand Canyon, our deserts and wonderful national parks?

“We long to see the strange and exotic, and we fail to fully enjoy and appreciate our country’s majesty. My family can’t take fancy vacations right now, but we’ve made a promise to make nearby parks and other sights part of our plans for the near future.”

Adam Goskey, Schererville: “I am very thankful for the educational opportunities we share in this country. College is expensive, sure, but look at how many ways there are to get a degree: classroom, junior colleges, business schools, online.

“Too many students today waste precious time in high school, then moan about not being able to get into a school. Make the grades and you always can find a way to foot the bill if you’re creative and determined enough.”