During a time when banks give out shaky loans and individuals are borrowing beyond their ability to pay back, perhaps the best remedy is thanks. The reason we buy things is often from a lack of appreciation for what we've got.

We are privileged to have an example in the Pilgrims when it comes to gratitude.

They where the ones to know what it meant to be truly thankful after seeing half their number (51 of 102) dead by their first springtime here.

Unlike the settlers of Jamestown, the Pilgrims knew how to work. And after receiving the fruit of their labor, they knew who to give thanks to.

The re-written history books say Thanksgiving was a time to give thanks to the Indians. Yet William Bradford (who was there) gives the credit to God. In his history of Plymouth, he told how Squanto “became a special instrument sent of God for their good ...”

We might not individually have much say over major decisions when it comes to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

By counting our blessings we can spend money more wisely. There's an idea that floats around that it's our patriotic duty to spend lots of money to stimulate the economy. Could it be possible that this will simply dig us into a deeper pit?

We cheer ourselves with the thought, “Things could be worse.” For the Pilgrims, things were worse, yet through it all they were an example to the ages when they said, “thanks.”

Ronald Woodburn Jr.

Locke