In the movie Aladdin, the main character gets the chance to change his life from Street Rat to Prince. But first he has to decide what to wish for from The Genie. In looking online to find the scene, I discovered that rather than asking what Aladdin wanted, the Genie asked “What do you need.”

The real scene wasn’t as long as that YouTube video, but I can imagine it feeling that way if a magical being asked me what I needed. If there were no limits (other than no killing, no bring back the dead, and no forced love), I wonder how long it would take for me to come up with just the one wish.

Maybe because what we all want is happiness, and how that is defined depends on the individual, and sometimes on the day. Like during the December frost, all I want is a warm blanket, a large mug of cocoa, and some chocolate chip cookies. In July, I’d want a very different set-up (or a powerful air conditioner to keep me from melting).

Whatever brings a smile to your face, that is the perfect way to be happy today. You don’t have to worry about the pressure of a genie in your face with only three wishes to decide. Instead, chose what makes you happy right now. That, my friend, is what you need.

And just in case you would like some ideas, Charlie Brown is here to help: Happiness.