Tony,
Happy Birthday!
I've always appreciated waking up in the morning as I am one of the lucky ones, I guess, that wakes up roaring to go. I've always sort of taken life for granted until three years ago when my wife had a heart attack. She has since fully recovered with no apparent heart damage but I tell you, when something like that happens, you suddenly become painfully aware of your mortality!
Since then I not only appreciate her more and more, but I thank God for each and every new day that we have together.
John C. has it right - sometimes it takes a major event to show us the beauty of this life.
The best to you and many more,
Walt