On August 31st, 2001, at 2:00 p.m., PBS (Public Broadcasting System) aired the last original showing of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. After over 30 years of greeting youngsters daily on television with his trademark "Hi Neighbor," Fred Rogers put away his cardigan and sneakers for the last time.

For those who grew up with Mister Rogers (I couldn't wait until "Trolley" came and took me to the "Neighborhood of Make Believe") and now those who watch Daniel Tiger (the modern adaptation of Mister Rogers) take time to reflect on how this man influenced generations of children and the young at heart. 

Mister Rogers' messages over the 30 years were remarkably consistent (exhibited mostly in his songs) -- 

• You're Special

• It's You I Like

• I'm Taking Care of You

• I'm Proud of You

• Let's Think of Something  

Always positive, always imaginative, always very consistent.

So, what can we learn from the man dressed in a cardigan sweater made by his mom and wearing the same sneakers?   

• We can learn that the most enduring and memorable relationships are those when you put the other person first. 

• We can learn that simple, consistent messages (reinforced in various ways) communicate the best

• We can learn the enduring value of sincerity, honesty, pride, and encouragement in our day-to-day relationships.

• We can learn that in this ever-changing world, there are people, values, and ideas that you can count on

• We can all learn to be better neighbors.

Mister Rogers. 

Until Next Friday,