Adam
 
  While recuperating from her second open-heart surgery at Children's
  Hospital of Western Ontario, my six-year-old daughter, Kelley, was
  moved from the intensive care unit to the floor with the other
  children. Because a section of the floor was closed, Kelley was
  put in the wing reserved for cancer patients.
 
  In the adjacent room, a six-year-old boy named Adam was fighting a
  battle with leukemia. Adam stayed at the hospital for a portion of
  each month while receiving chemotherapy treatments. Every day Adam
  sauntered into Kelley's room to visit, pushing the pole that held
  his chemotherapy bag. Despite the discomfort of the treatments,
  Adam was always smiling and cheerful.  He entertained us for hours
  with his many stories. Adam had a way of finding the positive and
  the humor in any situation, however, difficult.
 
  One particular day, I was feeling tired and anxious for Kelley's
  release from the hospital. The gray, gloomy day outside only
  fueled my poor mood. While I stood at the window looking at the
  rainy sky, Adam came in for his daily visit. I commented to him
  on what a depressing day it was. With his ever-present smile,
  Adam turned to me and cheerily replied, 'Every day is beautiful
  for me'.
 
  From that day on I have never had a gloomy day. Even the grayest
  days bring a feeling of joy as I remember with gratitude the
  words of wisdom spoken by a very brave six-year-old boy named
  Adam.
 
      By Patti Merritt
   from Condensed Chicken Soup for the Soul
 Copyright 1996 by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor
     Hansen & Patty Hansen