What do you have to be grateful for on this Thanksgiving Day?

Nearly 400 years ago, in 1621, a people who would someday become Americans celebrated the first Thanksgiving at Plymouth in what is now Massachusetts.

They gathered to give thanks for a successful harvest and to rejoice together in a community spirit.

Today, many millions of American gather in their homes with their families for a similar purpose — to give thanks for a bountiful life, to share the hope of a bright future and to enjoy the blessings of liberty in a land free of the turmoil that afflicts many parts of the world.

Truly, Americans have much for which they should be thankful. Those who have forgotten that need only to be reminded of the millions of people all over the world whose dream is to one day become citizens of this great country, free to enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness under the rule of law.

At the same time, there is no doubt that this Thanksgiving comes during a hard economic time. The U.S. unemployment rate is in excess of 9 percent. It's even higher, 10 percent, in Illinois. Our federal and state governments are in fiscal disarray and our federal and state leaders appear powerless.

In short, people are hurting and deeply concerned about what surprises may lurk around the corner. So this Thanksgiving is different in that sense — some people don't have as much to be thankful as they have in the past.

But we all have blessings in our lives, and Thanksgiving is one day each year set aside for appreciation. This year, however, let's not just reflect upon the goodness in our lives but consider how to enrich the lives of others.

Whether it's volunteering time or giving money to charitable causes, there are so many different ways individuals can help improve the lives of others. Champaign County is alive with opportunities for those interested in lending a hand.

Whether it's voting, getting involved in a neighborhood issue, helping out a favored candidate or even running for office, there are many ways people can work to keep our republic vibrant, whether it's at the local, state or federal levels.

To thrive, democracy must be constantly nurtured by a vigilant public.

Most people fortunate enough to have one take great pride and comfort in their families. This Thanksgiving, why not resolve to be a better parent or spouse? Why not extend that concern by becoming a better friend or neighbor?

It should be no surprise that over the course of time Thanksgiving has evolved into a more insular occasion — from a community celebration centuries ago to a family feast followed by football and perhaps a nap on the couch.

There's nothing wrong with that. All holidays are for food, drink and relaxation among friends and family.

But Thanksgiving is for that and more — embracing what's good in each of our lives while considering what each of us can do to brighten the lives of others.