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| Stephen Jendraszak is a junior journalism major and writes 'Jack of All Trades' for the Daily News. His views do not necessarily agree with those of the newspaper. |
A cultural icon died Thursday.
Fred Rogers, the creator and host of "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," had more impact on the lives of children who watched his show than we want to admit -- perhaps even more than we realize.
The online magazine Slate compared him to a musty uncle, but Rogers visited every morning, more often than most relatives, and he never talked down to us.
His show was slow and simple, but it addressed issues of real concern in young lives. He helped generations of children through wars and assassinations, terrorism and teasing, sibling rivalry and rage. He showed me why I shouldn't be afraid of the Wicked Witch of the West.
Most importantly, Mister Rogers planted one idea deep in the American psyche: We should persistently honor the uniqueness and importance of the individual but also stress communal responsibility in our "neighborhood."
"We live in a world in which we need to share responsibility," he said. "It's easy to say 'It's not my child, not my community, not my world, not my problem.' Then there are those who see the need and respond. I consider those people my heroes."
Mister Rogers showed his respect for each person outwardly, reminding children that they made this day special just by being themselves. This lesson has profound meaning, whether the listener is dealing with cruelty on the playground or the complexities of adult relationships.
Rogers also taught respect more subtly. He extended courtesy to his young audience and dealt with them honestly. He gave them complete attention and love during each of the nearly 1000 shows he taped.
Rogers was an anomaly as a public figure; he lived his life exactly as he presented it on television.
"The greatest gift we can give to anybody is the gift of our honest self," he said.
In an era when the American public was shown over and over that it can't always trust priests, televangelists, presidents, athletes or even children's television hosts, Fred Rogers never made us regret putting faith in him. He was a unique, authentic role model.
He worked at the first PBS station and earned four Emmys, but his achievements went beyond writing and taping the longest running show on PBS.
He earned degrees in divinity and music (and numerous honorary diplomas); he was an ordained Presbyterian minister who composed more than 200 songs. He advocated responsible use of the air waves and talked about television as a ministry, not a business.
Toward the end of his life, Rogers was awarded America's highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
"There's a generous current in the American spirit," he said. "And if we can simply give voice to that once in a while, I think it's a good message."
We are lucky that Mister Rogers will continue to share that message and plant love in the hearts of children for years to come.
After all, even death can't stop reruns.
Write to Stephen at stevehj@mac.com
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