Washington, DC - Pessimists might suggest that we have a lot to be fearful of these days. They'll say that the threats of terror attacks cast a dark shadow over the country during this holiday season. They'll argue that the economy is not what it used to be, that the country is divided politically and that unrest is widespread. But the truth is that every day is Thanksgiving Day, according to Dan Weber, president of the Association of Mature American Citizens.
"Challenges abound, but we have much more for which to be grateful than we have to be afraid of. After all, our nation has been facing and overcoming challenges throughout its existence. A small band of American upstarts defeated the armies of the most powerful nation on Earth at the time to gain our independence from the British Empire and to establish a home for the free and the brave. We established a world-class model for democracy, a land where innovation and invention thrive, where rights are inalienable and where there is a time-tested election process that allows us a peaceful and productive way to change our nation's leadership each four years"
Weber noted that 2015 saw its share of hardship and distress but, he said, we also saw many reasons for optimism and hope. "There are still too many needy young and older individuals and families in need in the United States., but their wealthy and not-so-wealthy countrymen have taken it upon themselves to lend a helping hand. In fact, the United States rates at the top of the 2015 World Giving Index of the most generous nations and received the highest ranking in the world for 'helping a stranger'."
He cited the National Philanthropic Trust's most recent Charitable Giving report that shows the average American family gives nearly $3,000 a year to help the needy. In 2014, total contributions to charitable organizations in the U.S. reached a record $358.38 billion dollars-a 7.1% increase over the year before.
"What's important to note in the NPC report is that most of the money given to charitable causes - 72% of it - came from individuals, more than a quarter trillion dollars," Weber said.
In addition, he added, awareness of the sacrifices made by members of our armed forces and first responders across the nation is on the rise.
"More people are digging into their pockets to aid their neighbors. More people are finding ways to say 'thanks' to those who risk their lives to protect the rest of us. More people realize this year that though we had our turkey dinners yesterday to mark the official holiday, every day is Thanksgiving Day."
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