I got everything I need right here with me. I got air in my lungs, a few blank sheets of paper. I mean, I love waking up in the morning, not knowing what’s gonna happen or, who I’m gonna meet, where I’m gonna wind up. Just the other night, I was sleeping under a bridge and now here I am on the grandest ship in the world having champagne with you fine people. I figure life’s a gift and I don’t intend on wasting it. You don’t know what hand you’re gonna get dealt next. You learn to take life as it comes to you… to make each day count.

– Jack Dawson in Titanic

We all know how that journey on the “grandest ship in the world” ended – especially for Jack. He never made it through. Yet he made the most of that journey. Which is why he was the hero of the story. He taught us gratitude.

So be grateful. For everyone and everything in your life. For the big and the small. For the visible and the invisible. For your family and friends. For they who drive you crazy with their concern and they who have a silent faith in you. For money in your wallet and a roof over your head. For food in your stomach and clothes on your body. For every part of your body that makes life possible for you. For every breath you take.

Life can get nasty in a microsecond. The trick is to realize how lucky you are and enjoy your good time. Be grateful and you will be happy.

Most of all, be grateful for the love you receive.

Winning that ticket, Rose, was the best thing that ever happened to me… it brought me to you. And I’m thankful for that, Rose. I’m thankful.

– Jack Dawson in Titanic