World Kindness Day and the Power of Mr. Rogers

It’s no coincidence that World Kindness Day and Cardigan Day are on the same day! There’s no one who personified love and kindness like Mr. Rogers and I saw that kindness first-hand when I was just four years old. I wrote him a letter (I’m pretty sure my mom helped!) about my disability and he took the time to write back. I’ve saved that letter for three decades and thought today was the perfect time to share it. It’s a bit tattered from the ravages of time, but his message is still fresh and vital…

Talk about life coming full circle (I feel like I do that a lot lately): Last year, I wrote about the importance of Mr. Rogers for CNN Opinion!! It was a complete joy to honor his legacy in words and share all the lessons he’s taught the world. I wrote these words…

I grew up with the wonders of public television. Shows like Sesame Street and Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood not only entertained me, but were also the building blocks of my education and the cornerstone of my childhood, teaching me all about numbers and spelling and even life skills like manners and how to make friends. And because of my disability, I couldn’t get around as easily as the other kids my age, so at times, those shows were literally my window to the world. I may not have been able to climb on the playground equipment, but I sang along to Mister Rogers’ opening song and hung out with Lady Elaine Fairchilde.

In 2019, kindness doesn’t always come easily. I know that I’ve been there far too many times to count myself, so don’t think that you’re the only one who has ever felt like this. The world feels like a mess and we all get angry and frustrated, but thank goodness for the wise words from everyone’s favorite neighbor!

Let love and kindness guide you today and every day — whether it’s World Kindness Day or not. I love you, friends… xoxo