Demonstrating Love in February

How familiar are you with the philosophy of Charles Schulz (he’s the creator of the Peanuts comic strip, like the one below)?

I can think of no better time than at the start of a new year to let his words wash over and inspire you. It's a short read, about 1 minute, and it packs a big punch!

NOTE: just beyond his philosophy, if you're up for it, I have a suggestion for how you could put his philosophy into action by applying it in your own life, so don’t skip that part ok?! After all, it’s in the application of what we learn that knowledge becomes wisdom.

Charles Schulz Philosophy

You don’t have to actually answer the questions. Just ponder on them.

Just read this straight through, and you’ll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
   2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
   3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.
   4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
   5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
   6. Name the last decade’s 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…
Awards tarnish.
Achievements are forgotten.
Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

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

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
   2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
   3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
   4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special!!
   5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?

The lesson:

The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials…the most money...or the most awards.

The differences are simply made by the ones who care the most and are there for you.

Share this with those people who have either made a difference in your life, or whom you keep close in your heart.

How to Share Charles Schulz Philosophy

February is right around the corner and many of us associate that month with love. Beyond forwarding this email to others you think would find it inspiring, here's another very tangible and loving way to apply Charles Schulz philosophical lesson in your life:

1. Make a list of 4 people who came to mind while taking the second quiz, those who cared the most and have been there for you; those that have made a meaningful difference in your life.
   2. Get out paper and pen and write a letter, of any length, describing the unique difference they've made to your life and how much they mean to you.
   3. Mail (yes, snail mail with a stamp! Trust me, the impact will be far greater)one letter a week during the month of February. You could mail them all at once, but mailing them one per week keeps the philosophy in the forefront of your mind longer and resonates more deeply within your soul.

Important: These letters communicate your gratitude towards another. In that spirit, I'd encourage you to release any expectations around how it will be received and/or whether you'll hear back from the recipient. Simply offer the letter with your heartfelt words as an expression of thanks and love.

If you take me up on this challenge, I'd love to hear from you after you write the letters, how the experience went for you and what you gained from the process. Contact me by reply email or click here.