A couple days ago I sent a short thank-you note to my neighbor who is
serving in the Army overseas, thus missing Thanksgiving dinner with his
wife and two young boys.  Now my wife and I have just finished
Thanksgiving dinner with our family; so I'm full of turkey and pie.

This got me thinking about the really unique character of this holiday
in the United States and Canada.  Being from the USA, I'm most familiar
with the Pilgrim variety of Thanksgiving, but I know that other
countries or ethnic groups have similar holidays.  Most are either
harvest festivals or derive from contact with the United States.

But Thanksgiving is a really interesting holiday.  Although
Thanksgiving has its historical roots in religious traditions, today it
is celebrated in a more secular manner.  While praying is often
centered around asking for one thing or another, Thanksgiving is
distinguished by expressing gratitude for what we have, be it material
things or harmonious relationships, or simply good health.

In that vein, and on behalf of all the MMD members, I'd like to thank
Robbie and Jody and Matthew for the wonderful service they provide to
the mechanical music community all around the world.  Thanks also go to
those in the group who respond to requests for help of various kinds
and to those who ask the questions and give others the opportunity to
share their knowledge.

Regards and best wishes,
Craig Smith
Western New York, USA

PS: When my neighbor left for overseas, my wife put a small "thank you"
sign in our front yard with a little flag.  A few hours later my
neighbor drove by on the way to the airport to ship out.  We found him
at our front door in tears.  Sometimes it only takes a small gesture
to make someone happy.