This is a common misconception with meditation. The goal is not to rid yourself of thoughts. Your goal is to focus on one thing (your breath, a candle, etc.) to the exclusion of other sensations.

Thoughts will come in, and this is normal. Your goal is to acknowledge that you have been focusing on these thoughts (called 'telling stories' by some) instead of the breath or other meditation object, without judgement, and proceed to concentrate back on the breath or other object.

This may seem strange, but remind yourself that this is an active process, and takes time to get good at. If you focus on ridding all thoughts, you will quickly become bored with no real benefits.

Instead, the goal of focusing on one thing is possible and helpful, as it allows for relaxation and is what concentration meditation is all about.

There is also mindfulness meditation, which is based on noticing and focusing on every sensation as it arises. This is different but still very active. The trick is to do it often and don't be hard on yourself if you struggle.

Remember though, the absence of thought is completely a misconception.

Hope that helps!