The words concerned, fretful and anxious could be used to describe the nation's mood in recent weeks — in the light of economic uncertainty, bailouts, bankruptcies and job losses.

For New Yorkers, the state's looming fiscal crisis adds yet more worries.

At the same time, Americans have elected a new president, Barack Obama, whose optimistic message has brought hope for positive change in many areas. Mr. Obama has gone right to work well before taking office, interviewing candidates for his administration and addressing the economic quandaries that perplex economists and ordinary folk alike.

These steps are necessary for the sake of continuity between administrations and to buoy public confidence that the new president is equal to the challenges before him. At the same time, President Bush's administration continues to wrestle with the daily problems posed by one economic emergency after another.

This would appear to be a difficult time to embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving, the holiday for counting one's blessings. But it is not so.

One need only recall the circumstances surrounding the first Thanksgiving to appreciate that adversity does not cancel the banquet or discourage a grateful heart.

Thanksgiving Day is pure joy. It provides a day of rest and relaxation to gather with family and friends to enjoy life. Thanksgiving is a time for fellowship, to catch up on family news and make plans for future gatherings.

Each family has its own traditions on this traditional American holiday. Whether it is hunting, watching football, playing board games or attending church, people tend to have their routines, doing what they enjoy and what gives meaning to their celebration.

For many Americans, thoughts on this festive day turn to those who are in need. At several north country locales, food baskets have been prepared for families to partake of a Thanksgiving meal. Soup kitchens throughout America feed the hungry on Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving is about pausing to acknowledge the many blessings of this life and thanking the provider. It is important and encouraging to do so.

And while we are showing gratitude, let us not forget to commend the cooks.

Happy Thanksgiving.