Although this is not harvest time in Hawaii, we celebrate Thanksgiving with as much enthusiasm as Americans in more northerly climes. Only a small minority anywhere are still directly involved in agriculture, which makes the harvest connection less meaningful. But the symbolism is still important. This has been another lean year for the economy here, although Governor Cayetano claimed in his re-election campaign that it is on the road to recovery. If so, that's something to be thankful for, although we have our doubts.
Hawaii residents can be thankful that the months-long ordeal of the election campaign is over.
University of Hawaii football fans can be thankful that their season-long ordeal will soon be ended. Merchants can be thankful that the Christmas shopping season, which can make or break their year, is beginning. And all of us who haven't been forced to leave for financial reasons can be thankful that we live in these beautiful islands.