As many make final preparations and begin cooking for Thanksgiving Day, it is important to take time and give thanks.

It is important to take a perspective with a positive outlook. All too often, we focus on the negative rather than on the positive.

So what should we be thankful for this year?

Be thankful for the family and friends who are there in times of need, when you are sick, need someone to talk, or to just get away.

Be thankful for what you have rather than what you don’t.

Be thankful for the things intended along with the things that were not or did not go as anticipated.

Being appreciative in any situation will help define our character and future decisions.

Be thankful for the country we live in, because regardless of our religious or political views, we Americans are free to form our own opinions and make decisions.

So, tomorrow while around the dinner table at home, the restaurant, or wherever you gather, we encourage you to remember and give thanks for people and what matters the most.