(CNN) – As the nation enters the traditional holiday shopping season in the midst of a financial crisis and is reminded of its own potential vulnerability by the terrorist attacks in Mumbai, President-elect Barack Obama called on Americans to come together for the sake of the country’s future.
Watch: Obama reflects on the meaning of Thanksgiving
This Thanksgiving “takes place at a time of great trial for our people,” Obama says in his weekly Saturday radio address which his transition team released Thursday morning.
Listen: Obama's weekly radio address
“Across the country, there were empty seats at the table, as brave Americans continue to serve in harm’s way from the mountains of Afghanistan to the deserts of Iraq s. “At home, we have an economic crisis of historic proportions,” he says.
“But this Thanksgiving, we are reminded that the renewal of our economy won’t come from policies and plans alone – it will take the hard work, innovation, service, and strength of the American people,” Obama says.
“So this weekend – with one heart, and one voice, the American people can give thanks that a new and brighter day is yet to come.”
Obama will spend Thanksgiving in Chicago with his wife and daughters, according to his transition team, and Vice President-elect Joe Biden will spend the holiday in Nantucket, Massachusetts with family.
(full text of Obama’s weekly address after the jump)
Full text of President-Elect Barack Obama’s weekly radio address for Nov. 29, 2008:
Good morning.
Nearly 150 years ago, in one of the darkest years of our nation’s history, President Abraham Lincoln set aside the last Thursday in November as a day of Thanksgiving. America was split by Civil War. But Lincoln said in his first Thanksgiving decree that difficult times made it even more appropriate for our blessings to be – and I quote – “gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American people.”
This week, the American people came together with families and friends to carry on this distinctly American tradition. We gave thanks for loved ones and for our lasting pride in our communities and our country. We took comfort in good memories while looking forward to the promise of change.
But this Thanksgiving also takes place at a time of great trial for our people.
Across the country, there were empty seats at the table, as brave Americans continue to serve in harm’s way from the mountains of Afghanistan to the deserts of Iraq. We honor and give thanks for their sacrifice, and stand by the families who endure their absence with such dignity and resolve.
At home, we face an economic crisis of historic proportions. More and more Americans are worried about losing a job or making their mortgage payment. Workers are wondering if next month’s paycheck will pay next month’s bills. Retirees are watching their savings disappear, and students are struggling with the cost of tuition.
It’s going to take bold and immediate action to confront this crisis. That’s why I’m committed to forging a new beginning from the moment I take office as President of the United States. Earlier this week, I announced my economic team. This talented and dedicated group is already hard at work crafting an Economic Recovery Plan that will create or save 2.5 million new jobs, while making the investments we need to fuel long-term economic growth and stability.
But this Thanksgiving, we are reminded that the renewal of our economy won’t come from policies and plans alone – it will take the hard work, innovation, service, and strength of the American people.
I have seen this strength firsthand over many months – in workers who are ready to power new industries, and farmers and scientists who can tap new sources of energy; in teachers who stay late after school, and parents who put in that extra hour reading to their kids; in young Americans enlisting in a time of war, seniors who volunteer their time, and service programs that bring hope to the hopeless.
It is a testament to our national character that so many Americans took time out this Thanksgiving to help feed the hungry and care for the needy. On Wednesday, I visited a food bank at Saint Columbanus Parish in Chicago. There – as in so many communities across America – folks pitched in time and resources to give a lift to their neighbors in need. It is this spirit that binds us together as one American family – the belief that we rise and fall as one people; that we want that American Dream not just for ourselves, but for each other.
That’s the spirit we must summon as we make a new beginning for our nation. Times are tough. There are difficult months ahead. But we can renew our nation the same way that we have in the many years since Lincoln’s first Thanksgiving: by coming together to overcome adversity; by reaching for – and working for – new horizons of opportunity for all Americans.
So this weekend – with one heart, and one voice, the American people can give thanks that a new and brighter day is yet to come.
From CNN Politics
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A new Lincoln is born!
I really appreciate Obama's optimism, and this is exactly the spirit that has led him to the path of White House. Like the hours before sunbreak, there is darkness. Definitely there will be a bounce to upbeat the economy in America.
In Hope we trust.
AMEN.
Happy Thanksgiving Everyone! May your day be one to reflect on all that is positive in your life. As I head out to join four generations of my family for Thanksgiving, I know mine will be.
And a good Thanksgiving to you, too, President-elect Obama. The thinking nation is particularly thankfor for your infusion of new leadership. May all your efforts bear fruit.
Very well said, Barack. Wishing you very Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving.
Were all the typos on purpose to make him look a little less cerebral and a lot more like bush?
Wishing you and your family, President elect Obama a Happy Thanksgiving Day. My prayer are send out for those people Mumbai.
To you CNN Happy Thanksgiving.
At some point the President Elect Obama is going to have to realize that actions speak louder than words.
The motivational articulate speeches got Obama elected, now lets see if he can deliver on his promises and back up what he preaches.
So far Obama has not past the test, he promised the American people change and then picks a cabinet full of Washington insiders and people who served under the Clinton Administration. Is this the "Change We Can Believe In"?
For the Countrys sake, I hope not.
Because of President Obama, America now has hope even though his tasks will be difficult. By simply being open to suggestions from others and entertaining ideas, he has lightened the load upon all Americans. While not intending to place more pressure upon his shoulders he has given Americans a reason to forge ahead and adopt the Never Quit mantra. No adminitration can be expected to be perfect and the only adminstrations which come close to perfect are the ones which never accomplish anything. I think President Obama will be great for America because he is willing to try which is the first step to change!!!
He is saying "our people" rather than the American People!!! how dare he.
BO is most thankful for...
1. Lazy folks who voted for the "Handout" candidate,
2. the blind faith of uninformed college students and coffee-shoppers,
3. the fact that black people voted color,
4. the fact that most (not all) liberals are intilectually incapable of thinking outside the context of themselves (think abortion),
5. and most of all.... George Bush.
"... the American people can give thanks that a new and brighter day is yet to come.”
Are we supposed to give thanks to him?
Finally, someone who asks of us more than just to spend money.
President Elect Obama is reflecting the meaning of Thanksgiving while President Inept George Bush is trying to find out the meaning of Thanksgiving.
Thank you President-elect Obama! You have filled so many of us with a new sense of hope and joy. There's no doubt in my mind that you're going to be a terrific president, especially with President Lincoln serving as an inspiration to you.
This man shows more and more every day what a great President he will make....he is right, we do have a brighter future ahead....it won't be easy and it won't be quick but I do feel more confidence knowing that we will have a new President in the New Year.
God Bless him and his family and Happy Thanksgiving to all.
All the best on your Thankgiving day from your neighbors to the North, it appears that you have an outstanding leader to move your nation ahead through these difficult times.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family, as well as, to the American People. We will overcome our current adversities!! Happy Thanksgiving to all and let's get ready to rumble!!!!
Thank You! President Elect Obama. America wishes you and Vice President Elect Biden a Happy Thanksgiving.
P.S. I also would like to wish ALL the bloggers good or bad ones a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.
Yes, a new day has come.
We wish you God's Speed.
This republican and her family was proud to vote for you.
How can so many dumb people not recognize this honest man, his dignity and his authentic way of life? Is our world that full of cynicism, hate and selfishness? God bless all of us and may he protect the life of your President-elect Barack Obama and his family.
Were Obama a Bible believing Christian, as he has said he is, he would know that the days ahead are not brighter, and Obama cannot change the course of the world as God has already told us it is going to be. Obama and his Marxist ideals is setting the stage for the end of the USA as it has always stood proud in this world. We are on the verge of destruction from American moral decay and also for international terrorism because we have stood as a nation with Israel.
Thanks be to Almighty God for our blessings as we know them today, and Obama had nothing to do with these blessings.
Thank you, President-Elect Obama for giving us hope and great leadership.
we all need each other – for balance if nothing else...do well in your beliefs but above all do not hate!
I have been paying attention to the appointments and speeches made by the president-elect and i continue to be impressed. Not only with the intelligence and diversity of the appointments, but in his direct and honest approach about the difficulties that face us and how we can look for brighter days ahead. This speech is another such example and it gives me hope for the future of our country...
Obama did not come out against Prop 8 and was silent as gays marched for their rights.
Is his message that gays are not human? Why won't he let them get married? Obama talks about unity and tolerance but HE DOESN'T WALK THE TALK.
Why should Rachel Maddow and her friends listen to Obama when he treats them as if they were sub-human???
Happy Thanksgiving Barack and Family. Let's hope the entire country gives your administraion the chance it deserves. That means turning off Limbaugh, Hannity, O'Reilly, Fox Noise and seeing if Ann Coulter can keep her mouth permanently closed. These people are determined to butcher Obama's strategy weeks before he even takes office. TURKEYS!
Where is our president BUSH....He is still our President for almost 2 months to go...............I resent obama steping in before he is even sworn in..........All he cares about is himself.......he doesn't care about these people who voted for him.....They were used by him to get where he wanted to be .....He loves no one but himself.......wake up
Maybe for blacks but not for gays.
President elect-Obama--you said you are the voice of unity and tolerance but you do not back up that talk.
Are you just another slick talking politician???? If you refuse to support gay marriage then your words are a sham.
Our country needs brighter days ahead and something to look forward to. All the gloom and doom of the current administration has ruined our attitude.
We need to start fresh with Barack Obama at the helm.
We in the US can all give thanks that the recent election went smoothly, and that new, competent leadership has finally arrived.
It's too much to bear. The striking difference between this photo of Obama, and the nonchalance of Bush's photo in the story below....
We finally made it through 8 years of incompetence! Happy Thanksgiving!
Thanks very, very much for your inspirational message.We need it in these dificult times.To all that wonderful family I wish the best of the best in these Thanksgiving and the days to come. God bles you and God bless America.
Ara
What a great man.
Be proud what you elected.
He looks a little nervous.
Is he summoning spirits again? I hope it's not the dark one that inhabits his being. I can see it in his eyes.
a real President-–(after Bush its just shocking – I thought that all our leaders were stupid) .. Happy Thanksgiving America
To quote Obama, "We only have one President at a time." Why is he making a Holiday Address? And perhaps more importantly, where is our current President Bush?
I'm no longer hungry.
Kennedy stated, " Ask not what your Country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country." These words are as true today as they were fifty years ago.
Obama needs to quit acting like he's already president, beacuse
Bush is still our president untill Jan. 20, 2009
Then we had better pray really hard, because we are going to need it.
Yes indeed.
We as a Nation have so much to be thankful for.
May GOD continues to give HIS WISDOM to our President-elect Barack OBAMA.
May GOD bless the United States of America
Thank you Mr. President Elect for your kind words on this day of giving thanks. I hope you and your family can enjoy a wonderful day as many others sit down with their family an friends. Let also send prayers to the families who have lost a loved one, or have love ones over seas protecting our well being. God bless you (even the Bush fam) an God bless America an all around this wonderful place called earth. AMEN
pretty speeches, but he's already backed out of his promise to do away with don't ask, don't tell, his administration is loaded with lobbyist, and he has lied about his promise to repeal the Bush tax cuts for the wealthy. Happy Holidays Mr. Obama, same old, same old. Nothing new here, just another politician.
Well said! We love you
Thanks for a message that we all need to hear, thanks for learning from past presidents, thanks for looking ahead, thanks for giving hope, thanks for reminding us why America is the greatest nation on earth.
Happy thanksgiving to you and your family, my new President.
I know our country is in dire straights, our economy is hanging off its bones and there is much to do to find a new track to roll this train on into 2009 and beyond, but I am glad to have you leading us.
With one heart and one voice, I am here to support you and the renewed spirit of cooperation, heartfulness and humanity I felt on November 4th. I am proud of America's promise to regain her strength and integrity, respected for all the right reasons.
Gratitude to the men and women who serve and are in harm's way. Hope to all those who have lost work and are looking to spring forward. Health to those who are not well. Strength to all those who struggle to stay commited to the path of change.
I am grateful for all those around me, near and far, that I love and love me. And again, very grateful that I feel such pride in saying that you are my new President.
Happy Thanksgiving, President elect Obama.
Obama is not a US Citzen therefore can not be the president of this country. The truth will come out.
Thank you Mr. President. May you and yours have a wonderful day.
This character has absolutely no idea what he is about to experience as the head of a crumbling nation. I cannot help but smell another Jimmy Carter administration in the making. . The American people once again have the best government that money can buy. I hope they are pleased.
Let us all be thankful for what we have and use these challenging times to re-invent America as the country we have been in our best times: one of hard work, humanity, and peace. For tool long, Bush and neo-con Republicans thought that we could just bully the world and forget about those in the country and world who are suffering. Now that more of us are suffering and we are seeing the "true" costs of war, maybe we can begin to think about the savings our society accrues by investments in our collective well-being, peace, and humanity.
almost sounds like the line harvey dent says in batman
This is too Much, slow down take a break
Happy Thanksgiving and best wishes to all, I just hope the republicans choke on their turkeys.
I give thanks that the republicans were defeated and that we finally have a glimmer of hope that President Obama can rescue us from this republican generated economic depression.
Yeah...a new and brighter day is to come...in 4 years and change!
the hardest thing is wateing until jan 20th until obama can can take office . this country is in a crisis , bush has no economoic plan save goldern handshakes for his friends on wall st and the oil industy. so i think people are just a bit somber at present knowing they have to wate , its kinda like you got the equipment but you a long way from a wall socket and ya gotta wate until the plug gets plugged in then you have realy got power an can get a job done . i think thats the frustration people feel right now. were with ya obama .
God bless you Mr. Obama this holiday, may you and your family have a wonderful thanksgiving.
A new and brighter future is on the way.
This is a true leader, a true blessing to our country. He is not even the President yet, but he is already taking charge, organizing, and doing what we so need to be done. This Thanksgiving I am thankful for the promise of a new tomorrow, a bright future free of prejudice, snobbery, and selfishness. GOD BLESS our President Obama and his family. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone out there.
Would someone please tell Obama he's not president until 20 January! And to get rid of that stupid president elect seal he's using on his podium. With his head swelling like it is, it just might pop!
Let's all give thanks for what we have at this moment on this day. Happy Thanksgiving America !!!
Here is wishing you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving. May our country once again become united as one of ALL backgrounds from the right to the left and make our nation strong once again. ENOUGH with the divisions in our country. God Bless America!
Is this message from the Office of the Socialist-Elect?
Start preaching "work hard for what you want" and leave my earnings alone.
I have great faith in you president elect that you will get this country back on track and may the lord bless you and keep you safe. And those people that Sarah had at her hate rallys are no longer out there. And am also hoping and praying that you will serve a second term as president.
Who is the President? Nothing like overstepping the line.
"Let" tho oil companies bail out the car companies seeing as how they feed off each other any way
His message is good but the arrogance of him coming out with any scripted public message is stunning. He's not the president yet.
On trivial side, during his interview late night on 20/20, Barack Obama said he would try to conserve energy.
So why during daylight hours is that lamp in the background turned on?
Happy Thanksgiving Mr. President elect Obama! I cant wait for you to take office. God bless you and your family.
God bless you & your family, President-elect Obama, & HAPPY THANKSGIVING! We are behind you 1000% !!!
That's why we voted for you Barry..
What difference does it make what he says. He is extremely shady and you can't believe anything he says.
Who cares what obama the magnificient has to say. He's not in office yet.
What a great president(-elect).
What I am especially thankful for this Thanksgiving is that Barack Obama is soon to become my country's President. May January 20 arrive swiftly!
I support you all the way. I appreciate very much your wisdom and kindness that you have shared with us on this Thanksgiving Day. I hope that the people (they know who they are) who try to devide us, and redicule every move you make, will examine their consciences and help you unite the country and fix its ills, instead.
More talk of change but same old Washington. Does anyone there have an original thought.
So instead of 4 more years of Bush we could 4 more years of Clintons.
Happy Thanksgiving to you Mr. President-Elect and to your family
The only "trials" should be a War Crimes Trial for Bush Cheney and Rumsfield ...
They lied to the American public and did a bait and switch on us all...
Then many in the Bush Whitehouse profitted from both wars....
Their deregulation of Wall Street and Banking has lead the nation to the brink of financial disaster ...
They tortured prisoners.. and that was what always made us different, the Bush Administration made us no better than those we are now at war with .. The greatest thing about AMERICA was that we held ourselves to a higher standard ......Well we used to .......
May the Creator bless our Earth Mother and All who live upon Her.
May the Creator bless our new President and the United States of America.
May the Creator guide us through the coming days, months, and years of this recovery plan.
May we know Peace on Earth and unity world wide through this experience.
Aho Mitakaye Oyacin... All are my Relations.
I didn't vote for Obama, but I hope he is successful. We need someone with some organizational skills who can lead this country back onto the right track.
That day started on November 4th and will end in January 20 th of 2016.
Thank you President-elect for for your inspiring words.
To a new and brighter day
is dealing with the last years.......putting it all on trial
For " A new day" isnt worth the air that its said upon
if the foundation of our future is not forged in a restoration of real, honest and honed accountability .
Or shall we keep the "get out of jail free" card for our most honored and revered criminals?
Nothing new about that.........
Happy Thanksgiving! ; ) thanks for the dinner........ and everything after..........(one of the last Mohicans)
Hell0 – he's not President YET!
This is refreshing!
A new and brighter day? Isin't that what Hitler promised the Germans? or what Castro promised the Cubans? Only God can improve mens lives; when a man promises "change" be prepared for the worst examples of human depravity.
Beautiful speech; lovely sentiments.
I'm just wondering how all that Pilgrims/Indians/maize/turkey stuff fits in...
Happy Thanksgiving, Everybody!!
Dear President-Elect,
I know you are a great leader and going to be one of the most respected Presidents of the United States. But where is the reference to loss of innocent lives in India because of the terrorist attacks in your radio address. How long we (USA) will follow the double standard in treating terrorism?. How are the attacks in Bombay different from attacks in NY?. Terrorism has no colors and please treat them equally. Pakistan is the country where terrorists live and thrive, yet USA has supported the military regime (in past) of Pakistan citing national interest. We should be supporting democracy which in the long run benefits our national interest.
Allowing military to govern Pakistan is a counter-productive position like the case of Bin Laden. In the long run, only democracies will be our friends not military regimes. USA allowed Pakistan to be nuclearized and we will repent that later.
Unless you dismantle (disolve) ISI, we will not succeed in Afganistan and Pakistan in controlling extremism. I do not know politics but I can sense what is going on!
Just hope he keep his word about helping veterans as a desert storm vet who has been fighting the V A for 11 years about benefits only to here last week it was the government who did this me and other soldiers.it really makes me feel like a fool.
This guy likes fame. I don't know how he can turn a thanksgiving into a political message.
Although i supported him, i wish he would stop talking like he is still campaigning, it is really making me annoyed.
Right-wing nuts will start posting right about now, considering they were in hibernation during the election, they are coming out in full force.
President Elect Obama I am from the UK and I wish you a very happy 'Thanksgiving day.' May God bless you and your family and the people in America. I follow your progress every day when I get home from work. I pray that you will be successful in solving the big problems in America. Good Luck.
To all the idiots that keep bashing President-Elect Obama's change: He's talking about POLICIES. Not FACES. I don't care if he picked Jimmy Carter and his team (though they're mostly dead or too old), if they have experience then it's all good.
So, you critics think he should elect "The guy next door" with ZERO experience?
He hasn't even taken office yet, so enough of your "I'm b**ching about living in a Liberal Country" attitude.
God Bless you Pres-elect Obama, have a happy thanksgiving.