When I was young, my mother would let me sit on the floor beside her bed while she watched the Merv Griffin Show. I loved it, and being with her, sharing a special pleasure.

One time, Merv asked the actress, Ruth Gordon, "Ruth, you've had so much difficulty in your life. Your husband and mother encouraged you to get an abortion, yet you always seem happy. How do you do it?" Ms. Gordon replied, smiling, "I wake up in the morning, and I CHOOSE to be cheerful." 

That never left me, and I've shared it with people who ask me why I seem to be so happy, with all the difficulties I've had in my life. Yea, Merv and yea, Ruth! And thank you, Dr. Laura. 

Peg