A Thanksgiving for all should be the goal for everyone

Several groups, churches and agencies come together this time of year to try to make sure there is food for those who can’t afford it. It’s a commendable exercise in sharing and caring by an entire community.

It is hoped here, though, that people who are so giving now and likely going forward as the holidays continue into the new year, that they make mental note that sharing and caring needs to be a year-round endeavor. People who are down on their luck can be found in July as well as now.

As many of us give thanks today, sitting at tables laden with food, we should take a few minutes from the idle chatter to think of people we know through work or neighborhood walks or school who could use a lift of some kind and jot down their names so they won’t be forgotten when the holidays end.

On a little lighter note, think of the vegans who are sitting down together sans turkey. Or gravy or ham or even honey. They eat nothing coming from animals, not even that awful green Jell-O that used to make the rounds in the ‘50s and ‘60s because it’s made of gelatin that comes from bones, skin and other parts.

We say more power to them and their decision to try to eat healthily and at the same time make a small step toward improving the planet. Pass the tofurkey.

Then there are the football games that divide the house into two sections: fans who think nothing about watching all three professional games on today and those who couldn’t care less. Or worse for fans required to travel to a family or friend’s house where there are no televisions. Talk about cold turkey.

Then there’s the latest from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that says the Thanksgiving weekend is the deadliest time on the roads. Not New Year’s Eve or Christmas or any of the summer holidays.

For one reason, people tend to drive long distances to get to gatherings and then when start driving home they become sleepy. Some also tend to drink before, during and after meals.

So, take some precautions today, or watch your guests to make sure everyone gets home safely and the next holiday isn’t marred by a tragedy that could have been avoided.