Thursday, December 20, 2007

In line with the Charles Schultz Philosophy


The following is the philosophy of Charles Schultz, the creator of the the 'Peanuts' comic strip. You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just read the list of questions straight through, and you'll get the point.

1.  Who are the five wealthiest people in the world?

2.  Who were the winners of the last five Heisman trophies?

3.  Who were the last five winners of the Miss America pageant?

4.  Can you name ten people who have either the Nobel or 
     Pulitzer Prizes?

5.  Who were the last five winners of the Academy Awards?

6.  Can you name the last decades worth of World Series winners?

How'd you do?

The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers; they are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. The trophies tarnish. Achievements are all but forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1.  Can you list a few teachers who aided your journey through school?

2.  Can you remember the name three friends who have helped you 
     through a difficult time?

3.  Can you name five people who have taught you 
     something worthwhile?

4.  Could you think of a few people who have made you feel 
     appreciated and special?

5.  Who are five people you enjoy spending your time with?

Easier?

The lesson: The people who make a real difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials...the most money...the most awards.

They are simply the ones that care most.

This particular message makes it's way around the internet around this time of year. I love receiving it. It always brings back a flood of memories...of the person who sent it to me, and of all the people who were among my answers to the "easier" questions above.

When I was a kid, it was always more than special, when a friend or realtive took time regularly to know what my interests were. And, when I was fortunate enough to receive a Christmas or birthday gift, their acknowledgement of my interests was always apparent in their gift selection. How incredibly special it is to have your uniqueness recognized! 

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