My father-in-law recently shared something that was emailed to him. It's a philosophy of life that is claimed to be from Charles Schulz, the creator of the legendary "Peanuts" comic strip featuring the cartoon character Charlie Brown. Schulz, of course, drew much of his inspiration for Charlie Brown and the whole "Peanuts" gang from his own life.

Unfortunately, it's not clear exactly who wrote this piece or where it came from originally. The Charles M. Schulz Museum claims that Mr. Schulz is not the creator of this message. However, the museum does admit that the quote at the end of the piece is from the pen of Charles Schulz. Also, you'll notice that the name at the top of the piece is "Schultz" and the famed cartoonist spelled his name "Schulz" which you see following the final quote.

So while I'm not sure exactly where this message came from, I think it's worth reading.

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EMAIL MESSAGE …

Subject: Charles Schultz Philosophy

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schultz, the creator of the "Peanuts" comic strip. You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just read the e-mail 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 Contest.
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 did 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. They are the ones that care.

Pass this on to those people who have made a difference in your life.

"Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It's already tomorrow in Australia."
(Charles Schulz)

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It would nice to know for sure who really wrote this piece. All I can say is that whoever did write it had a powerful philosophy of life. This short message reminds us what’s most important in life.