Last Friday, my husband and I went to our favorite movie theater to watch “Won’t You Be My Neighbor”, a movie dedicated to the life and works of Fred Rogers.
I don’t believe there was a dry eye in the entire theater — I know yours truly was grabbing for the tissues OFTEN. Why? I suppose so many fond memories came flooding back. Combine that with learning about his personal struggles and all he did (with such grace) was a perfect recipe for a good cry.
If you’re not familiar with Fred Rogers (of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood) please, please Google him. I consider it a TRUE honor growing up watching him on PBS from a very young age.
Mister Rogers introduced me to The Land Of Make Believe with King Friday, Lady Aberlin, Officer Clemons, and my all-time favorite Daniel the Tiger. For 30 minutes, I was enthralled in a wholesome, educational program that reminded me that each and every child is important and special. Not to be confused with teaching children to feel entitled, but to acknowledge that each person’s feelings, thoughts, and questions are valid and worth listening to.
After watching “Won’t You Be My Neighbor” I learned from 1968-2001 Fred Rogers produced, wrote, acted, sang, and created voices for each puppet. Did the man sleep? And through it all he hit on relevant and very heavy world topics.
I’m a better person having seen this movie. If you can carve a couple hours from your day, I encourage you to go. I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Before I go, I’ll leave you with one of my favorite Fred Rogers songs:
It’s you I like,
It’s not the things you wear,
It’s not the way you do your hair–
But it’s you I like
The way you are right now,
The way down deep inside you–
Not the things that hide you,
Not your toys–
They’re just beside you.
But it’s you I like–
Every part of you,
Your skin, your eyes, your feelings
Whether old or new.
I hope that you’ll remember
Even when you’re feeling blue
That it’s you I like,
It’s you yourself,
It’s you, it’s you I like.
Cheers!
