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Charles Schultz created one of the most recognized characters in the history or comics. Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus and Pigpen are four names synonymous with the Peanuts comic strip and cartoons. While many of the Peanuts comics and televised cartoon may seem like they are just silly story lines designed for kids, there are many things we can learn from watching these cartoons and the characters included in these cartoons. Here are five life lessons we can take away from Peanuts.
Persistence is a Key to Success
One of the most famous and well-known gimmicks in the Peanuts comics and cartoons is the one in which Lucy holds the football for Charlie Brown to run and kick. At the last second, Lucy always pulls away the football and Charlie goes flying into the air and lands on his back. But even though he knew this was going to happen, at least in the back of his mind, he always tried it. He never let his past failures discourage him from trying again. If many of us were more like Charlie Brown and we continued to try things despite past failures, we many accomplish more of our dreams and goals.
Being a Hesitant but Effective Leader
Many of us have been in crisis situations where a leader was sorely needed but nobody stepped up to take that responsibility. In “Race for Your Life, Charlie Brown,” Charlie is in a situation in which a leader was needed to take charge of the situation. There are times in our life when we need to step up to lead during a crisis or other situation and despite our hesitations, we can be a successful leader and realize traits within ourselves that we never knew existed.
Character is Often Displayed by Actions
There are several different character traits that the Peanuts characters displayed in various situations. But many times, their character came out through their words. Woodstock, however, never spoke. The little yellow bird had great character and we always knew his intentions because of his actions. We can say anything we want to try to persuade people about our character, but our actions are what really show who we are regardless of the words that come out of our mouth.
There is Strength in Friends
One of the best things you can have in life is a few good friends. Peanuts shows us this many times. Despite their differences and the arguments they have, they still stuck together especially when times got tough. Do you have friends in life who you can say this about? If so, consider yourself a lucky person to have friends that stick close when there are difficult times in your life, just like the characters in this cartoon.
Listening to Others is Important
Another popular thing about the Peanuts is Lucy’s psychiatric practice. For only five cents, she would listen to all of your problems. She may give horrible and even insulting advice, but she still listened. In life, if you can learn to listen more than you talk, you will accomplish a lot.