A new movie hit theaters last Friday that reminds all of us who grew up in the 1970's, 80's, and 90's just how lucky we were. That movie is 'Won't You Be My Neighbor.' I know you know that line comes from the television show 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood,' starring Fred Rogers. Only recently did I realize the impact the show had on me and how much we need it now.

Portrait Of Mister Rogers
Hulton Archive, Getty Images
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'Mister Rogers Neighborhood' was on television for 33 years, from 1968 to 2001. I remember watching it with my sister when we were kids. However, while watching the PBS special 'It's You I Like' a couple of weeks ago, I was absolutely amazed. I don't remember a lot of things from my childhood, but as I watched that special, I remembered everything. All the characters, all the voices, everything.

Soon after watching the special, I learned there was a documentary about Fred's life, and the show, coming out. 'Won't You Be My Neighbor' hit theaters last Friday, June 8. That night, Julie and I went to a movie at Marcus Theaters in Cedar Rapids and this was one of the previews they showed. I cried during it.

The movie isn't currently showing at Marcus Theatres in Cedar Rapids and a phone call revealed it won't be there until at least July. AMC Theatres in southwest Cedar Rapids isn't showing it either. A call to that theater wasn't answered.

What an incredible role model we had in Fred Rogers. I may not have known it at the time, but Fred and his show helped shape me. I like to think it helped make me a kind and good person. I now realize all the things he helped teach me, without me even realizing it. That really is the best kind of teacher.

I wonder if kids today have someone they can look to as we looked to Fred. Unfortunately, I think I know the answer. Now, perhaps more than ever, we could all use someone showing us not just the good in the world but that "I like you just the way you are.'

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