"Dripping in this strange design, none is yours and far less mine. Hold the
wheel; read the sign; keep the tires off the line. Just relax; you're doing
fine; swimming in this real thing I call life. Can I bring a few companions on
this ride?"
-Phish, "Strange Design"
Last week before we published I learned that one of my role models had died of
cancer. Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood was one of the few television shows I
watched
growing up. Unknown to most people it was based on Presbyterian principles.
It makes sense since he was an ordained Presbyterian minister. The fact that he used Christian principles isn't the point. What matters is
that he's taught millions of kids all over the world some of the best lessons
in life.
All of my life growing up has honestly scared me. Eventually I realized that
not
everyone had to grow up and become a Ügrumpus.¯ People like Fred Rogers are
incredible, unique individuals. They are the people that are a pleasure to
know. They are successful adults, and while not being childish they
still remained childlike. That is one of the most important lessons in
life. To me there is nothing nobler than a person who can switch gears, play
the way kids play and most
importantly, see things with the wonder that kids can.
In every episode Mr. Rogers stressed creativity and imagination. I picked
that
notion up and refuse to set it down. Growing up should never be a matter of
throwing down the old tools and picking up the new ones. Growing up should be
taking what you've learned and blending it into what you will learn.
Other things he's equipped children with are the ideas of true friendship and
unconditional love. Regardless of faith or idealism, everyone deserves
those. Everyone should be lucky enough to have true friends. The friends that
know all the embarrassing things and love you anyway are the real ones. Contrary to popular belief they don't require dues.
Everyone also deserves to be truly loved. That needs no elaboration.
As you head home to visit family and friends or to spend Spring Break at the
beach for drunken exploits worthy of "Girls Gone Wild" videos, think about
this: If this is all we have then we have one shot to get it right. Who we
are is how we react to what life presents. If you need to, take the time, go
back, and pick up your tools.
Goodbye Fred. Thanks for being my role model even at the age of 24. Though
your
torch has burned out, those of us who lit our own from your flame will hold
them up and light the way for others.
I wish you all peace, love and friendship.
Responses:
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Name: Rach Gelfo
Comments:
I really liked this article. I never knew he was a minister...interesting fact. yes i am sure Mr. Rogers will be missed by all.
Name: Dogg-Himself
Comments:
Thanks Jeff, I appreciate it. This is only week one. Lets see what I can do with the rest!
Name: Jeff
Year: Alumnus
Major: ly tired
Comments:
When I learned Mr. Rogers died, a part of the world died too. But I think one of the most important things he operated on was faith, the faith that people are good and with the right influences can always be good. He left that legacy behind.
Very well done, Steve. This is the finest thing you've done for the magazine so far.
Name: John
Comments:
Dogg, I'm glad you used one of the tools you've picked up along the way to write this tribute. I know that Mr. Rogers will definitely be missed by many. Well done.
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