By Ahsan
“All of us, at some time or other, need help. Whether we’re giving or receiving help, each one of us has something valuable to bring to this world. That’s one of the things that connects us as neighbors—in our own way, each one of us is a giver and a receiver.”
Fred Rogers
What a fantastic show we got to see growing up! Mr. Rogers was a kind fellow who wore his signature red cardigan and blue sneakers. What style! He also taught me a few great life lessons.
Here are five that I recall and wish to share with you:
The Power of Imagination: The neighborhood of Make-Believe was a segment where kids were encouraged to not only use their imaginations but to be creative in their thinking. As we grow, we should remember to do more of this! Why? Because thought is how we experience our moment-to-moment reality of life.
Patience: Mr. Rogers taught about the virtue of patience. As we have come to know from growing up, there are times when life is topsy-turvy. This is when we need to be patient. What may feel extremely difficult today will fade away if we practice being patient.
Self-Esteem: Mr. Rogers repeatedly taught me that you are special and unique in your own way. This was a massive lesson for me, and I’m sure for you, too. Children need to know that they don’t need to be someone else and that they are fine just the way they are. What is remarkable about this? You go through life feeling positive about who you are and who you can be. Mr. Rogers instilled personal growth and development!
Learning: The show often featured field trips. This inspired learning about the world and curiosity about things. As I have grown up, my interests have changed in various ways, and I feel most alive when I get to learn about something. I am fascinated by a lot of things.
Empathy: Mr. Rogers taught us to be kind and to have compassion for others. In a world that is so vast and full of people with various backgrounds, cultures, religions and differences, being kind avoids tensions and fosters friendships. I’m all for that!
Well, I’m sure if you were lucky enough like me to have watched this show that ran from 1968 to 2001, you will have benefitted from these and many other lessons.
What life lessons from this list resonate with you? What life lessons would you teach children today? Feel free to comment and let us know.
Stay Awesome in your Neighborhood!
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