Obama acknowledges tough economy this Thanksgiving

"I know that for many of you, this Thanksgiving is more difficult than most. But no matter how tough things are right now, we still give thanks for that most American of blessings, the chance to determine our own destiny," Obama said in a taped Thanksgiving message.

The president said that while the partisanship and gridlock in Washington may lead some to question whether unity is possible, the nation's problems can be solved.

"The problems we face didn't develop overnight, and we won't solve them overnight," he said. "But we will solve them. All it takes is for each of us to do our part."

Obama encouraged Americans to remember the men and women in the military who are spending the holiday serving their country overseas. And he thanked those who were taking time out of their Thanksgiving celebrations to serve in soup kitchens and shelters.

"This sense of mutual responsibility — the idea that I am my brother's keeper, that I am my sister's keeper — has always been a part of what makes our country special," he said.

Obama said he was thankful this Thanksgiving to serve as president and commander in chief, and thankful that his daughters get to grow up in "this great country of ours."

The president said his family would spend Thanksgiving eating great food, watching football and reflecting on how truly lucky they are.

"Together, we can and should find common ground to deliver a government that honors the voice of the people," Adams said. "The challenges we face demand nothing less."