Yes, life is hard. The world's a mess. We all have our share of pain and serious problems. So does our planet. We'll be talking about them, debating them, tearing our hair out and watching what our country --and the world-- does to fix them as the new year begins.

But. Hang on.

There is some good in all our lives. Little things that make most of us feel better. Not global, but personal. Not costly, but not merely cheap thrills. I'm going to focus on a few of those today. And ask you to share your own.

And to remember, we're all in this together.

Things That Can Make Us Feel Good in the New Year:

Laughing so hard your face hurts.

Waking up and realizing you still have a few hours left to sleep.

A hot shower on a cold day.

Just once, no lines at the supermarket

Savoring that perfect first cup of coffee in a quiet kitchen.

Hearing your favorite song on the radio just when you need a boost.

Warm towels fresh out of the dryer.

A heart-to-heart conversation with someone you trust.

Reading something surprisingly wonderful.

Finding a 20 dollar bill in your coat pocket from last winter.

A mind-blowing orgasm.

A surprise phone call from an old friend.

An inspiring sermon that touches you and lifts your spirits.

Holding a new baby.

Laughing at an inside joke with your BFF's.

Finding a kindred spirit who becomes a BFF.

Playing with a puppy. Or a kitten. Or your own pets.

Hearing your dentist say, "Everything looks great."

The smell (and taste) of homemade cookies.

Waking up one morning feeling no aches, no pain. Even for just a day.

Getting an unexpected compliment at work.

Seeing your child accomplish something you thought might be impossible.

Meeting someone new who gives you that butterflies-in-the-stomach feeling.

Playing with a child. And laughing. And learning.

Finding the perfect pair of jeans. And shoes.

Getting something off your chest just the right way so no one is hurt and your message is received.

Hearing from a partner, a parent, a child, a friend, "I love you."

Knowing you've done the right thing, no matter what. And that you're not alone.

I hope you feel just a little better now.

I wish us all big, meaningful, important changes for the better in 2012. But I also wish us more of the small, simple pleasures and experiences that make our days brighter and more manageable in the meantime.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL MY FRIENDS!  L' CHAIM!