Actor John Goodman says he's learned to be grateful for his blessings, rather than always striving for more.

Goodman was awarded an honorary doctorate degree of humane letters Sunday during at the convocation at Missouri Southern University in Springfield. He graduated from the school with a fine arts degree in 1975.

He says he originally went to Missouri Southern to play football but an injury led him to focus on drama. He says he owes his career to the school because its teachers helped him find and pursue his passion.

Goodman, a St. Louis native who has starred in stage, television and film roles, told the students to appreciate small blessings, because "the most important thing you will do in your life is take your next breath."