'1-4-3 Day' returns Friday to honor Fred Rogers' legacy

Friday is 1-4-3 Day, a statewide celebration of Fred Rogers’ message of love and kindness.

To Mr. Rogers, the number 143 was a code — one number for “I,” four for “love,” and three for “you.”

Gov. Tom Wolf declared the first 1-4-3 Day last year, and the tradition returns Friday — the 143rd day of the year.

“During these uncertain times, it is even more important that we remember to show kindness to our neighbors and fellow Pennsylvanians,” Lt. Gov. John Fetterman said in a press release.

This year’s theme is celebrating the helpers, including the essential workers on the front line of the coronavirus pandemic, according to the state’s announcement.

Pennsylvanians are encouraged to share acts of kindness on Twitter using the #143DayinPA hashtag and get inspiration from the state’s “kindness generator” at 143day.dced.pa.gov.

“There are many ways that we can show kindness on 1-4-3 Day, and every day,” said second lady Gisele Barreto Fetterman. “Whether it is sending a thank-you note to your children’s teacher letting them know that you appreciate everything they are doing to support your child or writing a note for an elderly neighbor letting them know that you are thinking about them. It’s important to show kindness to your neighbors.”