The Feel-Good Quiz

Yesterday I came across a “philosophy” that is frequently attributed to Charles Schultz, the creator of the Peanuts comic strip. I would like to share it with you because it is simple and profound. And it will make you feel good. I call it the Feel-Good Quiz. Now, you don’t actually have to answer these questions. Just read through the whole text. You will get the point. First, name the five wealthiest people in the world. Second, name the last five Heisman trophy winners. Third, name the last five winners of the Miss America contest. Fourth, name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize. Fifth, name the last half-dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress. And sixth, name the last decade’s worth of World Series winners. How did you do? The point is that none of us remembers the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. In fact, they are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. The awards tarnish. The achievements are forgotten. The accolades and certificates are buried with their owners. Now here is another quiz. See how you do on this one: First, name three friends who helped you through a difficult time. Second, list three teachers who aided your journey through school. Third, name five people who taught you something worthwhile. Fourth, think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special. Fifth, think of five people you like to spend time with. And sixth, name a half-dozen stories of people who have inspired you. Did you find this quiz easier? What’s the lesson for us? The people who make a difference in our lives are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. The people who make the biggest difference are the ones who care the most. I’m sure you’ve found that to be true. And I bet your friends have your name on their second list.