The Phoenix — its publisher and employees — wishes you, your family and friends the best of Thanksgivings.

Thanksgiving is a unique holiday, and we hope that the original intent of the holiday is close to your celebration.

At this time last year, we were heading into uncertain times — a change of leadership; an economic crisis, the worst since the 1930s, and two ongoing wars.

We don’t want to minimize the problems we still face, but as this country proves every four to eight years, a change in leadership does not mean a change in the fundamentals of U.S. government. We still operate under the Constitution and debate, not armed battles, settle differences of opinion.

The war in Afghanistan apparently will ratchet up, but our strategy and purpose there may soon be much clearer. The war in Iraq is winding down. Most American troops may soon be out.

America has a debt problem, but thankfully, too, we are still a world leader economically, and we still have enough economic clout to command the world’s attention.

Locally, we can be thankful, as well. Employment here is not as high as it is in other parts of the country. Just recently, too, local economic development leaders announced Muskogee may be in line for a new company and 300 jobs.

More importantly, people here show they care for one another.

Facing revenue shortages, the state was forced to cut its programs and services, including funding for a senior nutrition program. In four area counties, the program was reduced by $1.5 million. At one Muskogee center, administrators were forced to cut meals on Fridays.

However, a local church filled the gap, providing money and raising funds from other churches so that the nutrition center will be able stay open on Fridays.

This is an example of how we do things for ourselves while we still care for one another, and how we demonstrate our thankfulness.

It’s that attitude that makes any community and nation strong.