Caring Makes a Difference

Lately on the news and as I scroll on Social Media I have been caught between two different extremes... reading and watching stories of unbelievable tragedy and heartbreak or seeing and hearing stories about extraordinary compassion, generosity and kindness. (I suspect you are also seeing all of the tragic stories of late, but just to give a reference, the other stories I am seeing have been incredible "secret santa" stories or people displaying "random acts of kindness" for those around them in need.)

As I have wrestled to try to understand all of the scary, horrible things in our world, I also cling to these good stories. To remember that everything isn't all bad and that there absolutely is incredible love, grace and beauty in our world too. AND... it is up to each of us to make it that way!

That had me thinking about the "Charles Schulz Life Philosophy" that I believe isn't actually from Charles Schultz, the creator of the 'Peanuts' comic strip, but it is a series of questions that is often attributed to him and is a concept that (regardless of who really came up with it) I love.

You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just think about them 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...

How did you do?

The point is that 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. They simply are the ones who care the most!

As we finish out this week, semester, and calendar year, I hope that you will try to shift your attention to how you can show care and compassion for the people around you. It makes a difference and our world needs more of that right now!