Although the world entered into a global recession in 2008, there is much to be thankful for in 2008. To dovetail with the Reuters video above, I’ve put together a top ten list of the things had the most positive impact. This is, by no means, a comprehensive list, so please feel free to add any events missing in the comments area.

1) The United States elected its first minority President when it elected Barack Obama.  Some might even call Obama the U.S.’s first “green” President as fighting climate change is a top priority.  (Just 5 years ago, Americans would have scoffed at the idea of a President championing “green” initiatives.  Oh, we’ve made much progress!)

2) The 2008 Olympics occurred without major incident, proving that the world can come together to celebrate life and sport in a developing country and a Communist regime.  It also marked the arrival of China as a world economic power.

3) The world financial community has come together to combat what is considered the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression.

4) A record amount of investment has been made in the clean technology industry and it does not seem to be ending anytime soon.

5) The United States auto industry received a harsh wake up call and now must focus on selling what the market is demanding, fuel-efficient vehicles.

The list continues after the jump!

6) Globally, consumers have woken from their slumber to realize that “consumption for consumption sake” is not a sustainable behavior and they are rethinking what they purchase and consume and are doing more with less.

7) Globally, commuters are turning to transportation alternatives such as mass transit and ride sharing to get to and from work each day to save money and fight global warming.

8) Microfinance has become a viable and standard method to develop economies in impoverished nations thanks to the efforts of Muhammad Yunnus.

9) The public is choosing to consume locally grown, organic food to support their local farmers and to ensure a local and sustainable food supply.  There is even a term for it.  It is called being a “Locavore”.

10) Dr. Randy Pausch reminded us that life is not about the number of years lived, but about the quality of the years lived.

As I stated earlier, these are somber times in which we live, but there is much for which to be thankful.  I look forward to the positive steps society will take together in 2009.

Here is wishing you and your family a Happy Holiday season and wonderful New Year.  Cheers!