Sunday, November 8, 2015

Peanuts and Friends: My BFTP!



As a huge Peanuts Fan, I greatly anticipated the release of the new "Peanuts" movie. In fact I was so excited, I had myself "Peanut-ized" as seen above. One more item off the Bucket List! My post this week is what Doug Johnson refers to as a BFTP: Blast From The Past". I think I posted it over 5 years ago when I wrote semi-weekly messages on the Elementary Media Conference. But it is as timely today as it was then. So enjoy!

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schultz, the creator of the "Peanuts" comic strip. This isn't a test. No data will be collected. But read it through and savor this food for thought.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize. 
4. Name the last five winners of the Miss America Pageant.
5. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.
6. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.

How did you do? The point is, few 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 five 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. Name five people you enjoy spending time with.
6. Think of one person who listened to you today.

Easier? The lesson of course is that the people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They don't have the most Twitter followers, magazine covers, or tags on Facebook. They are the ones that care.The ones who keep you grounded and the ones who you do the same for. 

Have a great week and Stay Grounded, Friends!