No one can
deny that it has been a difficult year or should I say 2 years, with the pandemic,
polarizing political climate, social justice issues and more. Pittsburgh’s beloved
neighbor, Fred Rogers, shined a continual beam of kindness through the darkest
of times. He coined the 143rd day of the year as a day to spread love and kindness.
On this
143 Day, I thought that I would share my visit to Buttermilk Falls Natural Area located on the former summer estate of Fred McFeely, Fred Rodger’s grandfather. As you stroll along the tranquil path leading
to the beautiful falls, you’re encouraged by his quotes which guild your walk like
a warm hug.
Reflection
Mr.
Rogers used the number 143 as a code for the words “I love you”.
This is
based on the number of letters in each word: 1 letter in
“I,” 4 letters
in “love,” and 3 letters in “You” (see
Day 370). He wanted us all to
remember to spread the love. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania even designated 143 Day as a day of kindness.
Buttermilk
Falls Nature Area is a great place to relax and channel some positive vibes. You
can experience this 45 foot waterfall about 54 miles from Pittsburgh on US rt 22 E in Indiana County. The path to the falls is an easy hike with an overlook.
Taking the steps, you can venture further behind the water. It is said
the Mr. Rodger spent many childhood summer vacations walking the grounds with
his grandfather and that the area inspired parts of his television
show “Mr. Rodgers Neighborhood.” Above the falls are ruins of stone foundations from several family structures. Walking through the park, I could visualize a
young Mr. Rodgers climbing a tree that looked just like the home of X the
Owl from The Neighborhood of Make Believe.
As I soaked in the natural beauty that day, I particularly reflected on this Mr. Rodger's quote, “Often when you think you are at
the end of something, you are at the beginning of something else”. I found solace in these words as we are all going through some change especially during these
uncertain times. Buttermilk Falls Natural Area is a great place to relax and even celebrate 143 Day with some contemplation on spreading a little more kindness and love in your neighborhood.
Spiritual Reflection
Be kind
and compassionate of one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God
forgave you. Ephesians 4:32
Other Sources
https://www.indianacountyparks.org/parks/buttermilk_falls_park/default.aspx
https://143day.dced.pa.gov/
https://cindymarie-emptynest-challenge.blogspot.com/2020/05/day-370-happy-143-day-day-to-remember.html
