Did you know he was studying to be a Presbyterian minister? He was living that path when the daily onslaught of children's television was just too omnipresent in his life. He felt he just had to do something about the incessant materialism and vulgarity children were witnessing on TV. He had a new calling; to create a children's TV program that would encourage kindness, wonder and genuine care.
“It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood,
A beautiful day for a neighbor,
Would you be mine?
Could you be mine?”
He was reminding us all that we are special, that a neighbor is someone who is there if you need help or direction, a neighbor can become a friend.
I never saw a Mr. Rogers show, it came out after my childhood TV watching years. I have however certainly heard of him and his mission of care and friendship. Moving is not my idea of fun. It requires me to reach towards Mr. Rogers mission, to be a good neighbor and that does not just happen, but requires reaching out.
When we first moved to Colorado, our neighborhood had yearly gatherings. Eventually as neighbors came and went, we took on hosting the party. That has come along to our new neighborhood in Estancia. Mr. Rogers would be proud of us.
Living in a tight community, literally, we decided this year to make it an Alley Party. All but two households came and it was a great success. It reinforced the sense of 'neighbor'. We do not have to be best friends, but we do need to be neighborly. I am grateful that we are that!