As we near an end to another year in news, the Star Tribune Editorial Board offers readers this partial list of the many things Minnesotans can be thankful for — and mindful of — on Thanksgiving Day 2015.
Be thankful for the staggering abundance of American life, reflected today on millions of brimming dinner tables and on long Christmas shopping lists ready for action on Black Friday (or even on Thursday night). Be mindful of need in the midst of this plenty and of the appalling poverty of billions around the world.
Be thankful for the huge reduction in crime over the past two decades. Be mindful, in view of the recent uptick in crime, that we don't know what's caused the improvement or what might reverse it.
Be thankful for the vast improvement in highway safety and reduction in drunken driving over many years. Be mindful that distracted driving is an ever-worsening hazard.
Be thankful for America's, and Minnesota's, comparatively robust economic conditions overall. Be mindful that not all regions of the state and nation, and not all parts of the world, are doing so well.
Be thankful for a justice system that by comparison historically and across the world is a model of openness, honesty and accountability. Be mindful that Minnesota's unconstitutional sex offender program still falls far short of those ideals.
Be thankful that Minneapolis city officials have called for an independent investigation into the Jamar Clark shooting. Be mindful that it will require the community's patience while the process plays out.
Be thankful for Minnesota's wealth of natural resources — its lakes, rivers, forests, fertile fields and minerals. Be mindful of the need for energetic stewardship to protect these resources for future generations' enjoyment and prosperity.