...But I don't care!
I thought of this question earlier today. I'd just like to ask, does anyone care to share what they may have learned about life from a character on TDVDS? Or even how they may have been inspired and which character provided the inspirartion? I'll go first:
I think even as a small child I was inspired by Rob to face the world with a smile and a sense of humor, because when you do, people really do respond positively to you.
You see, today, I'd been waiting in line at a busy print shop with an order for quite a while when finally I was next. The clerk looked at me, said excuse me, then suddenly asked if there was anyone else who needed to pick something up. Three people got in front of me. The clerk then said to me, "after this, you're next," to which I replied, "yeah, but I'm not gonna get excited about it next time." Everyone laughed, and I felt a little like Rob. Ok, a lot like Rob. Afterward, everyone made sure he waited on me.
Anyone else?

Steve

"Chocolate cake is milk cake!"

Steve, I loved your story!! There are so many life's lessons to be learned. One thing Rob has said a couple of times is "In case you haven't noticed, men and women are different!" I say, viva la difference!
My husband and I have a traditional family arrangement. He is the bread-winner and I stay home with the kids. I love it and I always feel validated when I watch the Petries. It is a good way to live!


Lolac :dog:

First of all, I'd like to say that this isn't a corny question--it's a great question! Readers get to see how other fans have been influenced and inspired by The Dick Van Dyke Show. I am only 14 years old and I've only been watching the show for a few months, as I've just "discovered" it, so to speak. However, I can't get enough of the show! I know it's corny and childish, but I would like to be an actor someday. And Dick Van Dyke has definitely become a big role model to me, along with Mary Tyler Moore and the rest of the talented cast. Since it's on so early in the morning I tape it daily and watch it when I come home from school.

The show has become very inspiring to me in many ways. The actors inspire me to become a better actor and comedian (Dick Van Dyke especially!), and also not give up on my dream of being an actor. Rob Petrie inspires me to be a good husband and father when I get older. He also inspires me to be optomistic about life no matter if it is a good day or a bad day. I have to say I admire Rob right along with Dick. The Dick Van Dyke Show also has made me want to become a writer for TV. I see how much fun Rob, Buddy, and Sally have in the office every day and I want that for myself! If I can't be an actor, I'd like to be a comedy writer (just like Rob, Buddy, and Sally)!

OK, well that's all I have to say. I know some of my comments were corny, but I hope you enjoyed them anyway.

Originally posted by DickVanDykeMan
First of all, I'd like to say that this isn't a corny question--it's a great question! ...Rob Petrie inspires me to be a good husband and father when I get older. He also inspires me to be optomistic about life no matter if it is a good day or a bad day...
First of all, let me say, Welcome, DickVanDykeMan! I see you are a new member and I'm glad you've decided to join us and post here. Based on your comments, I'd say you are an insightful individual. I singled out these particular quotes because they so remind me of myself when I was your age. What a wonderful thing to see in this era of CGI and Anime heros (not condemning those things), that a young mind can still be impressed by the honest simplicity of TDVDS. There is so much to be gleaned from the shows characters and their interraction with each other, if one would allow, but even the best teacher needs a good student to be complete. That's why I created this thread; hoping for posts like yours. Frankly, I was dissappointed with the low reponse, but you have come through for me in spades!
So, Dick Van Dyke Man, be that actor/writer/comedian, and keep that attitude!
And may you someday find your "Laura" so you can be that husband and father.
I'm very encouraged. Thank you!

Steve

Originally posted by hank18
"Chocolate cake is milk cake!"

Ditto :lol:

Steve,

I know you asked this question a while back, but I never took the time to answer. Yes, I do feel like I've learned a lot from The Dick Van Dyke Show, at least about history.

There have been many times when I've raced to my computer after an episode to look up something said on the show. I remember finding out what "the rabbit died" meant since I'd never heard that phrase before. Also, I learned who Albert Switzer was. There have been many other things as well.

I also feel like I've gotten a better idea of what life was like in the 60s because of the show. I didn't know how popular dinner parties were, or that charades wasn't always just a kid’s game. So in many ways I feel like the show has been an educational experience for me.

I know this wasn't exactly what you meant with your question, but this is what I thought about when I read your post.

Christina :bye: