A few thoughts from Dear Abby's column today......

"How's your health? Not too good? Well, thank God you've lived this long. A lot of people haven't. You're hurting? Thousands.... maybe millions... ae hurting more. If you awakened this morning and were able to hear the birds sing, use your vocal cords to utter human sounds, walk to the breakfast table and read the newspaper, (post your messages on this BB) praise the Lord! A lot of people couldn't. How's your pocketbook? Thin? Well, most of the world is a lot poorer. No pensions, No welfare, No food stamps, No Social Security. In fact, one-third of the people in the world will go hungry tonight. Are you lonely? The way to have a friend is to be one. If nobody calls you, call someone. Go out of your way to do somehting nice for somebody. It's a sure cure for the blues.

Are you concerned about your country's future? Hooray! Our system has been saved by such concern... concern for fair play under the law. your country may not be a rose garden, but it also is not a patch of weeds. Freedom rings! Look and listen. You can still worship at the church of your choice, cast a secret ballot, and even criticize your government without fearing a knock on the head or a knock on the door at midnight. And if you want to live under a different system, you are free to go. There are no walls or fences .... nothing to keep you here."

I'm thankfull and grateful for all of the above and for my wonderful 84 year old Mom who brought me into this world; for my health and terrific wife, three great children and three lovely grandchildren; all of whom I'm very proud.