It's that time again

Maybe the election didn't go exactly the way you wanted it to go.

Maybe public officials are leaning the opposite direction you think they should lean.

Maybe, just maybe, you're worse off than you were a year ago.

But if you're reading this, knock on wood.

And count your blessings.

According to a poll running on cdapress.com, 15 percent - that's too many - of respondents are going to be spending Thanksgiving Day alone. If you're one of them, please remember that several local restaurants are hosting delightful Thanksgiving meals at no cost. Grandma Zula's in Post Falls (11 a.m. to 2 p.m. tomorrow) and Fedora Pub & Grille (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.) are two options.

If you happen to be among the more fortunate folks who have enough - maybe even just a wee bit more than enough - seek out someone less fortunate and see what you can do to brighten their Thanksgiving Day. The area's nursing homes are a great place to look for someone who might benefit from your warm smile and a plate of cookies.

Our thoughts go out in particular to those who have lost a loved one in the past year. Casting sad eyes toward an empty place at the Thanksgiving table, tears may salt their food but if they listen with their hearts, the echoes of joyous laughter still can be heard.

If we can't be thankful for all the good times we've had, we won't appreciate those still ahead.