I, like most people my age, watched Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood as a child. I learned a lot of important lessons about morality, forgiveness, friendship and imagination. Even though I learned those lessons years ago, I forgot a lot of the beauty. My mom and I decided to go see Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood this weekend to explore that show that I used to watch as a child.
We were so touched by Tom Hanks’ performance as Fred Rogers, and we remembered all of the things we’d forgotten. For the most part, I’d forgotten how incredibly important Mr. Rogers is, even for adults.
“Forgiveness is a strange thing. It can sometimes be easier to forgive our enemies than our friends. It can be hardest of all to forgive people we love.”
This issue was tackled in the movie, and it was a gentle reminder to me. I hang onto issues for too long, and sometimes it’s hard for me to accept that forgiveness is the best step to take. And, on that note…
“The only thing evil can’t stand is forgiveness.”
The largest thing I’ve learned to do is forgive. I know that gives me power over those who’ve hurt me or wronged me.
“I don’t think anyone can grow unless he’s loved exactly as he is now, appreciated for what he is rather than what he will be.”
When I was a freshman in college, I worked at a daycare, and I learned how to talk to kids. I learned that talking to kids is the same as talking to adults. I learned to use different language to encourage them and to talk them through struggles and pain. I hope that every child I’ve ever touched knows that I appreciate them just for who they are.
“The media shows the tiniest percentage of what people do. There are millions and millions of people doing wonderful things all over the world, and they’re generally not the ones being touted in the news.”
When we watch the news, we tend to forget that there are a lot of things that get ignored. A lot of people complain about what goes on the news, online and in papers. As a person working in media, I understand that we have to decide what’s immediately important. We can only feature fun stories when we have time. You have to remember that kindness exists everywhere, and it’s always a good choice for you to commit kindness.
It’s a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood is a beautiful movie that reminded me that I can always choose to brighten someone’s day. Even if going to the movies isn’t your thing, I’d say take a chance on this one.