Lots of things. It is a pretty smart idea to “count your blessings” because happiness seems easier to find that way. Today I’m trying to add it all up and see how I’m doing. When I was a kid I figured I’d be pretty cool at my age. I would be able to drive, I’d be able to stay up late, I’d be able to eat whatever I wanted. Now I hate driving, like to go to bed early, and am careful about what I eat. Hm. Maybe I’m not that cool.

But I am thankful for many things. I’m thankful I was born in an age where I can vote, say whatever I like, travel freely without restriction, criticize or praise my government as needed, study whatever I like and take a job in whatever profession I like. I’m in awe of the fact that I got to learn to read. I’m grateful that I live a comfortable life with plenty of time for play and relaxation, and that I have access to the best health, fitness, and medical facilities the earth has ever known. I’m happy that I don’t live in one of the many diseased and inferior societies on this planet that still preach barbaric and outdated views on women, science, god, and how to treat people who don’t think the same way as you. Just that short list right there makes me part of a very, very lucky slice of humanity.

I’m very grateful to be alive right now, where I can be at the very heart of the technological revolution and watch the future be born. I’m grateful to be sitting in a nice house tapping away on my laptop. I’m grateful for chips and salsa and flat screen televisions with high definition display of football games. I’m grateful for fuzzy socks and fireplaces. I’m grateful for gardens and IMAX movie theaters. I’m grateful for being born and getting to live in the gorgeous state of California, the most beautiful place on earth with the best toys and the most exciting adventures to be had.

There’s a lot to be happy about. It’s useful to remind yourself of that once in a while.