A Lesson Learned! By Erica

Happy Autumn Florida DECA!

As the holidays approach, I enjoy a few traditions to celebrate the season; carving a pumpkin on Halloween and watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade early Thursday morning – my favorite, however, has become watching the iconic holiday television special; A Charlie Brown Christmas.

It’s easy to watch this short movie and be desensitized by its true meaning, but this time when I watched it, I saw the lesson that Charles M. Schulz intended.

My love for this movie is sparked by the outlook that Charlie Brown has on the world. When he is sent to get a perfect Christmas tree for the community play, he gets this small wimpy tree that only has three limp branches. His best friend, Linus, tries to warn him of the ridicule he’ll receive from their peers, but Charlie Brown responds, “I don’t care” and picks up the tree saying “I think it needs me.”

Linus was correct and everyone did tease Charlie Brown for his tree. But by the end they were able to fix it up and make it something festive while they all sang carols with Charlie Brown’s dog, Snoopy.

This lesson in community service has to come from within. You’re motivation to get projects and service activities completed should mean doing so even when it may be inconvenient. My challenge to you is to find your own wimpy little tree and be the Charlie Brown of your chapters and your communities. Realize the difference you can make when you lead you peers with strong motivation. 

Keep Thriving!

Erica Mick, Florida DECA State Vice President