President Barack Obama called on Americans to give thanks to our “gracious
God.”
Despite the turbulent season the nation is facing, he
encouraged Americans to look to the numerous blessings seen in the last year.
“As we stand at the close of one year and look to the
promise of the next, we lift up our hearts in gratitude to God for our many
blessings, for one another, and for our Nation,” he said this week.
The President also urged Americans to show gratitude to
their loved ones as well as members of the armed forces and their families, who
have made great sacrifices for the country.
In addition, he mentioned that Americans should remember the
less fortunate this holiday season.
“This harvest season, we are
also reminded of those experiencing the pangs of hunger or the hardship of
economic insecurity,” he said. “Let us return the kindness and generosity we
have seen throughout the year by helping our fellow citizens weather the storms
of our day.
“I encourage all the people of the United States
to come together — whether in our homes, places of worship, community centers,
or any place of fellowship for friends and neighbors — to give thanks for all
we have received in the past year.”