I’m looking around my garage. Among the features on the various cars are:

• Vibrating steering wheel when you cross a highway line without signaling first.

• Self-correction and braking when you drive onto the shoulder without signaling.

• Self-contained wifi.

• Self-closing doors.

• Remote opening trunks.

• GPS.

• Online contacts for navigation, emergencies, local dining suggestions, etc.

• Alarm systems that disconnect the ignition.

• Onboard diagnostics with monthly computer reports.

• Indicators of service due.

• Run-flat tires.

• Convertible tops that can be activated up to 30 miles per hour.

• Lights that move toward your signaled turn area.

• Cup holders that will heat or chill the beverage.

And, by the way, I haven’t even included the Rolls. We become inured to improvement and innovation and luxury. Once you’ve used a “luxury” more than once, it’s a necessity (try to watch TV without the remote).

We seem to make major note of setbacks but simply accept improvements as a matter of course. Flying at 38,000 feet, with lavatories, internet connections, luggage, and the ability to take on board or purchase food, all for under $200 to distant destinations, and with an incredible safety and on time performance record, well, that’s not bad at all.

But few are ever satisfied because they feel they deserve better!

© Alan Weiss 2017