Mister Rogers & Me

Deep and simple is far more essential than shallow and complex.

Deep and simple. That is the message.

If you're a regular reader of the Neighborhood Archive, you're likely aware that this past Tuesday marked the release of the highly-anticiapted documentary from the Wagner brothers, Mister Rogers & Me. Based on title alone, this film may seem like nothing more than another Fred Rogers biography with a focus on one man's relationship with the beloved children's television icon. Let me assure you, this could not be further from the truth.

Mister Rogers & Me focuses little on the man and much on his message.

Deep and simple.

Back in 2003, producer Benjamin Wagner was told by Fred Rogers to "spread the message" -- and he has done just that. Through conversations with a variety of notable individuals, the message of "deep and simple" is solidified in those of us who grew up with regular visits to the Neighborhood and we are reminded of the authenticity of Fred Rogers -- both on and off the camera.

Certainly, Mister Rogers & Me is more than just another documentary. It is a challenge to better ourselves and to recognize the importance of what is deep and simple -- to appreciate every second and every moment, every person and every meeting, that we are blessed to experience.

While my focus on the Neighborhood Archive is mostly centered around the pop culture aspect of Fred Rogers' career, Mister Rogers & Me pinpoints the true crux of it all. The Neighborhood sets have been dismantled and the film has stopped rolling. Through time, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood will fade into the television history books, but the message will remain.

This is why I do what I do. While I certainly enjoy detailing Fred Rogers' career from a cultural sense, it is my appreciation of his message that inspired my work to begin with. All of the music, the books, the toys, and the shows mean nothing without Fred's message as their foundation. As a husband, a father, and an educator, it is my hope that my message is the same.

Deep and simple is far more essential than shallow and complex.

Mister Rogers & Me is currently available on Amazon, iTunes, and at MisterRogersAndMe.com.

For more on Mister Rogers & Me, take a listen to the Neighborhood Archive podcast with special guest, Benjamin Wagner.