The smile is unforgettable, of course. But what made him light up at the dawn of each and every new day? I think it was his steadfast knowledge and appreciation that, in America, life’s glass is half full and just waiting for each of us to fill it up through hard work, perseverence, and yes, even luck. If we don’t believe in that fundamental premise about life, only bitterness grows. President Reagan knew that, and he helped me understand it. Once I did, my life was transformed, and for that wisdom I will always be grateful to him.