Kevin David Creative

Speedy delivery! Let’s put away our dress shoes and explore a land where sweaters and sneakers triumphed over suits in one of the most remarkable displays of persuasive politeness.

On May 1, 1969, Fred Rogers, the host of the treasured children’s TV show “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” appeared in Washington before the Senate Subcommittee on Communications. While a good neighbor like Fred would never consider anyone to be his enemy, his adversary that day was the gruff Senator from Rhode Island, John Pastore. With PBS in danger of losing more than half of their funding, it was up to the soft-spoken Rogers to convince the committee that his program (along with public television) was worth saving.

Rogers addressed Pastore in the same way he spoke to countless children around the world – with genuine warmth and understanding. But Rogers was more than just a friendly face. He concisely, and confidently, presented his case using sobering facts about the current state of television programming for children. He emphasized the importance of making feelings mentionable and manageable. Whether it was assuring a young boy that his first haircut wouldn’t hurt or coping with the pain of losing a loved one, his program valued considerate communication over cartoon commercialism.

The hardened facade of the Senator’s surly demeanor gave way almost immediately to Fred’s sincerity. “This is what I give. I give an expression of care,” said Rogers. “Every day to each child.”

With a newly humbled heart, the Senator concluded the hearing fully invested in Fred’s mission. “I think it is wonderful,” Pastore said. “Looks like you just earned the 20 million dollars.” A teary-eyed gallery gave applause while Rogers sat back in newfound relief. Pastore didn’t lose, Rogers simply won his trust through truth and a sincere message of kindness. In just seven minutes, Mr. Rogers secured enough funding to keep the trolley rolling down the track for generations.

What is your expression of care? How can we offer sincerity without being saccharine? Take a moment to remember when someone made you feel special and consider how you would want them to feel the same.

And no, you can’t go down the drain.