RUNderful Wednesday

The middle of the week is here, WOOHOO!!!! We've made it this far guys, so SMILE (even if the track is rained out like it is today, again). Le sigh. 

YOU are responsible for your own happiness; no one else can do it for you. 😊😊 I love reading funny or inspirational things, whatever makes me smile or think about something in a different way. My pick of the week is: 

SPREAD POSITIVITY AND KINDNESS 😃

This last weekend I got to watch a movie/documentary that was so close to my heart as a kid, and has stuck with me into adulthood. Won't You Be My Neighbor is a documentary on Fred Rogers, better known to his 60's, 70's & 80's childhood fandom (of which I was definitely a fan) as Mr. Rogers. In a world full of really crappy children's TV programs, his was simple and stress free. He valued children and worked hard to spread the message of positivity and kindness, and just as important, adequacy and self love. As a kid I would start my mornings in an old rocking chair pulled close to our black and white rabbit eared TV, eyes glued to the screen and eager to learn whatever Mr. Rogers was teaching us that day.

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In a world full of judgement, bullies and trying to measure up, he always ended his program by telling his audience, "There's no person in the world like you - and I love you just the way you are." As simple as it was, that phrase made a lasting impact. In his shows he addressed topics such as racism, JFK's assassination in 1963, and a host of other topics not being broached on typical children's programming. If you think back to being a small child, being talked down to by adults might come up in your memories. I loved Mr. Rogers because he never did that, he taught, entertained and gave everyone a sense of value. I was driving back form a BMX race in Dallas when the radio announced his passing. I was sad, but also extremely grateful to have learned the lessons he taught. He helped shape how I saw the world and also myself, along with millions of other kids. Maybe you too?

I am also SUPER excited to learn about the movie coming out about him, and that one of my favorite actors, Tom Hanks, will be playing him. I don't know about you guys, but I will see you at the theatre on opening week! 😄

I think kindness to others, tolerance and self love is something we need to continue practicing throughout our lives, and that should also extend to social media. I choose to ignore hateful comments, useless drama and all the trolls out there, eager to make you feel as bad as they probably feel. Say or do something kind for someone else, but also do the same for yourself. You deserve it!