Hi, Neighbor

I don’t know my neighbors. Sure, I know a few of their names and can say hello; I’ve helped to shovel their walks and they’ve shoveled mine; a couple of times a plate of food or dessert has been exchanged…yet, I really don’t know them, don’t visit, don’t spent time with.

There’s the Biblical narrative of re-minding (hyphen intentional…think about it) me that everyone is my neighbor and is to be treated with hospitality and kindness and compassion. Yet, being honest, I honk off and stare down more than a couple drivers on my daily commute.

It is hard to believe that today, 27 February, marks ten years since the passing on of Mr. Rogers. He with the sweaters and sneakers who asked the question we all answered in the affirmative – “Won’t you be my neighbor?”

I watched “Mr. Rogers Neighborhood” and Mr. McFeeley came to my church once and I got an autographed photo. It was O.K However, my heart and support belonged to “Captain Kangaroo.”

For me, my affection and appreciation for Mr. Rogers grew as I did. Long before Huey Lewis would sing it to popularity, Fred Rogers showed me that it “was hip to be square.” Mr. Rogers was genuine, peaceful, warm, welcoming, an educator, a worker for what is just, and in every way a truly gentle man.

Frequently, I’ll take a walk from my office, past PNC Park, and to the Mr. Rogers statue. I spend time there because he shows me that hospitality and an open heart are do-able and that my corner of the world sure could use more neighborliness and niceness…I can bring that.

In memory of Mr. Rogers do something this day that offers a kindness to someone who is not expecting it. You decide the what. Let me know how it goes.

sj;