When I was in graduate school at the University of Pittsburgh, I would change buses downtown, in front of a place called "Happy Landings." The logo featured the front end of a smiling plane.

I remember thinking to myself, "Next year, when I have a job, I can afford to go night clubs like this. Then I'll be happy."

In doing so, I gave myself permission to be miserable in the present.

I have lived most of my life that way.

When I was 15, I said to myself, "When I get a car, THEN I'll be happy."

Later, "When we get a bigger house, THEN I'll be happy." And, "When I get a better job, THEN I'll be happy."

Only recently have I realized that, although I have hopes for the future, THIS IS AS GOOD AS IT GETS. Be happy...right now.

Here is what I now do:

When I go to bed, before I fall asleep, I make a list of three things that I am grateful for that day.

Here is my list from yesterday (simple, little things):

* Listening to the Phillips Craig and Dean CD playing in my car as I had the roof off waiting for my daughter to get off work yesterday evening.

* Going with son and other daughter in his Jeep to pick up dinner at Boston Market.

* Even though I am 52 years old, I still feel like I did in high school. No aches. No pains. This is truly a miracle that could be taken away from me at any time. But most days I just take it for granted.

See what a difference it can make in your life if the last thing you think about before your drift off to sleep are YOUR blessings?

Happy landings!

~Author Unknown~

Richard "The Eagle" Motivator
Live and Act Like a Champion Today!!
http://www.TheEaglesNest.net
http://richardtheeagle.blogspot.com

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