On the Finale’s 15th Anniversary, Here Are 5 Lessons From ‘Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood’
It was 15 years ago today that we said goodbye to Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood. Beginning on Canadian television in 1963, the show moved to PBS in 1968, and aired there until its August 31, 2001 finale. Rogers closed the episode with this heartbreaking speech:
“I’m just so proud of all of you who have grown up with us. And I know how tough it is some days to look with hope and confidence on the months and years ahead, but I would like to tell you what I often told you when you were much younger: I like you just the way you are.”
Fred Rogers, a former Presbyterian minister with a knack for explaining tough issues to children, worked in public television as a puppeteer and performer for over a decade before his Neighborhood came to fruition. In 1975, he gave a young stagehand a shot at appearing on camera. He’d later move to Hollywood to become Batman, Beetlejuice, and Michael Keaton.
Today, we’d like to say thanks, with 5 Lessons We Learned From Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood…
5. You Can Never Go Down the Drain
4. Channel Your Anger Into Something Positive
3. Be Yourself
2. Divorce Isn’t a Child’s Fault
1. Look for the Helpers
“Weird Al” has his own cartoon coming to Disney. Check it out!
Did you grow up with Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood? What were some of your favorite lessons? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram or leave your comments below. And check out our host, Khail Anonymous, on Twitter.
