Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is a day in which "people of faith" render thanks to their Creator for the many blessings He showers them with.

I'm a freethinker, but I don't see this exhibition of thanksgiving to a deaf god as an empty and meaningless exercise -- it's always a good thing when individuals dwell on the positive.

I'd rather believers thank God for home, health and happiness, than ask Him to curse liberals and pagans.

Freethinkers also celebrate Thanksgiving, only we don't show appreciation to an invisible deity, we acknowledge flesh and blood loved ones.

I thank the editors of all the publications I write for, they provide me with a platform to express my sometimes controversial views.

I thank my friends, they are not always able to help me with my problems, but they always lend an ear.

I thank my co-workers, the camaraderie we share, helps us put up with inept management and less than ideal working conditions.

I thank my family, blood is thicker than water, and I know that through thick and thin, they will always be there for me.

I thank everyone who takes time to write an e-mail in response to my editorials, the kudos and the constructive criticism are equally appreciated.

I thank the Good Samaritan who fed my parking meter the other day, that anonymous and random act of kindness made my day.

As an opinion columnist, very rarely do I render thanks for anything, I'm usually complaining about corrupt politicians, crazy preachers and scandalous celebrities.

Writing this essay has been a most enjoyable experience, I advise everyone, believers and atheists alike, to try a little thanksgiving -- it really makes you feel good.

Happy Thanksgiving one and all!