One of the many remarkable things about my friend, Fred Rogers, was his capacity to be deeply and genuinely moved whenever he encountered goodness and decency. As such, he would have loved my hometown and the people in it.
I have felt so fortunate over the decades to have come from a place where so many people—starting with my parents, then teachers, coaches, friends and people I’d run across on the street—modeled for me how people should treat one another, with honesty, respect, courtesy and compassion. So yes, Fred would have fit right in in Crookston, and he would have been thrilled by my town’s coming celebration of kindness.
I’m reminded of one of his most famous sayings.
“There are three ways to ultimate success:
The first way is to be kind.
The second way is to be kind.
The third way is to be kind.”
It’s important to remember, however, that Fred knew that kindness is not always easy. In life there are many times of disagreement, discord and anger and it would be folly to pretend otherwise. Hence the words to one of his most important songs, meant for children of all ages.
“What do you do with the mad you feel, when you feel so mad you can bite.”
Pound on clay, he suggested. Run around the block. Scream into your pillow. Honor those difficult feelings.
But express them respectfully and in ways that are not hurtful to others. And, Fred might add, pause for a moment to consider that those with whom we disagree—other people who are angry—are suffering, too, and worthy of compassion.
I hear that Crookston has gone through some challenging times recently. Such is life. But I have no doubt whatsoever that healing will come, and my town will emerge from its difficulties even more remarkable than before.
Much love from Texas. Tim Madigan
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