Won’t You Be My Neighbor?
Quirk
Especially at times when, for whatever reason, we are kept apart from those we love and those we may not even know so well but would not mind talking to just because they can talk back, it can be comforting to revisit the words and sayings of our elders and those who may have been among the first to talk to us (at least in a meaningful way).
Perhaps that is why the latest illustrated board book of Fred Rogers’ timeless lyrics by Luke Flowers may be such a great gift not only for the new baby or early reader, but also for the others in our own neighborhoods and even for ourselves.
Despite the tragedy and loss all around, there are still reasons to say “It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood” and to think of those who we wish will still be ours when the seasons of loss pass. It is also a great time to introduce a new generation to Mister Rogers and his friendly cast of characters (real and make-believe) and of the simple importance of waving, saying ‘hello’’ and doing all we can to brighten each other’s days.
143, Man!
– Matt Robinson
