Even if you didn’t grow up watching Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood (1968-2001), you likely are familiar with the infectious — and almost inhuman — friendliness, kindness and patience displayed by Fred Rogers on that series and in his real life. The gentle Rogers, who passed away in 2003, remains a shining example of being a caring neighbor to one’s fellow person.
Last year, Family Communications, Inc., a nonprofit company founded by Rogers, began recognizing Rogers’ legacy of promoting neighborliness with its first Won’t You Be My Neighbor? Day. This event is now becoming an annual tradition, and the second Won’t You Be My Neighbor? Day is next Friday, March 20 (what would have been Rogers’ 81st birthday). On that day, people are encouraged to wear their favorite sweater in honor of everyone’s most beloved neighbor. And it doesn’t have to be the iconic, zipper-down-the-front type made famous by Rogers. Any old sweater will do, as long as you regard it as special. Because, after all, there’s only one person (or sweater) in the whole world just like you …
Courtesy of Family Communications, Inc.
my neighbor who practices drumming in the garage might try even Mister Rogers’ patience.
No one wants neighbors anymore. They just want facebook friends that they can interface with online.
Maybe I’ll wear a sweater anyway …