Instant Gratification

What happened to working toward what you want?  This "ask and you shall receive - immediately" mentality is ridiculous.  I have worked hard all my life to obtain the things that I have.  I have both patience and endurance.  I also have dreams.  Realistic ones, which I work toward every day.  I have expectations and desires for my family which won't be obtained by sitting on my behind waiting for someone else to make them happen.  Where do you stand on this issue?  Are you sitting back and hitching a quick ride to the finish line or do you have your legs firmly planted beneath you, your blood pumping, your lungs expanding as you inhale, all the while, mastering the drive yourself?  Though there were times I needed help, my parents taught me that I am fully capable of relying on myself and I am thankful for that knowledge.  I don't need instant gratification, just a focal point.