OK, I'll admit to being a little bit of a sentimental wimp.

This morning on the way to work I heard of Mr. Roger's passing. For a brief moment I cried.

He was a good man, courageous and gentle, uncompromising of his beliefs and unparalleled in his devotion to children and the world they inhabit. Even when he stopped doing his show, he didn't stop his good work and never really retired, despite his illness.

He loomed large in my childhood and beyond, even as he became the butt of jokes because of his gentle manner and relentlessly positive attitude. And much the way we look at parents, even though I'd left him far behind, I suppose I'd always kind of expected him to be there.

I hope he knew how loved he was. And I'd like to say to him, though it's a little late now, thanks.