Mr. Rogers

 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,  gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law                         Galatians 5:22-23

“There are three ways to ultimate success: The first way is to be kind. The second way is to be kind. The third way is to be kind.”

Fred Rogers

The show Mr. Rogers Neighborhood began in 1968, a show that began after my childhood. I was never a fan of the show because I believed that I was too grown up for it. Yes, it would have been a little weird if I watched the show when I was 18 + years old, but at the same time, I sort of ridiculed it as a bit of a show for sissies. You know, all that sappy stuff he talked about with kids. “You’re special”, “show kindness to others” – he hit all the platitudes.

I was wrong about Mr. Rogers.

I fear that today, our example of strong males is men with aggressive behaviors, those belittling others, a goal of winning at all costs, and having a robust sexual life with multiple partners. Fred Rogers was a man who exemplified his faith and manhood even when he was misunderstood. What strength of character!

Well, we sure could use Mr. Rogers today, right? He was a Presbyterian minister who truly lived out his faith. He loved people right where they were, and he encouraged others to do the same. He had a prayer list of people that he prayed for every day. He led a very disciplined life, one dedicated to others, especially children. He was an example, perhaps, of people who are not fully appreciated in their own lifetime.

 I wish he were around now so that I could tell him how much I admired him.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for examples of Godly men like Fred Rogers, Amen