Elmo

 

Elmo asked people on X how they were doing and hit a nerve - Upworthy

Last week, Elmo asked adults on X (twitter) how they were doing and tens of thousands of people replied. The simple question has sparked discussions all over the world about mental health and well being.

The tweet read, “Elmo is checking in, how is everybody doing?” and many people replied expressing their worries and their feelings. Some people write that they were ‘kinda sad’.

Elmo replied to the thousands of people; “Wow! Elmo is glad he asked. Elmo learned that it is important to ask a friend how they are doing. Elmo will check in again soon, friends. Elmo loves you! #emotionalwellbeing”

Other characters from Sesame St joined in the conversation, posting messages for people who needed help:

Bert: “I’m here if you ever need a shoulder to lean on. I’ll make us both a warm cup of tea.”

Ernie: “If you need some cheering up, let me know. I love making others smile!”

Cookie Monster: “Me here to talk it out whenever you want. Me will also supply cookies.”

Grover: “I, Grover, am here to be a good listener whenever you need it.”

Oscar the Grouch: “I’m not great at listening to others share their big feelings but my worm Slimy is. You should talk to him if you ever ned a chat.”

US President Jo Biden agreed: “Our friend Elmo is right..”

“I know how hard it is some days to sweep the clouds away and get to sunnier days. We have to be there for each other, offer our help to a neighbour in need and above all else, ask for help when we need it. Even though it’s hard, you’re never alone.”

-        Is this story silly?

-        What does this story show about people around the world?

-        Why don’t many people talk about feeling sad?

-        Can you always tell if someone is sad?

-        Which of the replies from the other Sesame St characters do you think is most effective?

-        What would you say to help someone who needed emotional support?

-        Do you always have to have answers?

-        What does President Joe Biden mean by “sweep the clouds away”?

-        When was the last time you checked in with someone? (what does check in mean?)

What can we learn from this story?

Why is it about No Outsiders? 

No Outsides: everyone different, everyone welcome by Andrew Moffat

www.no-outsiders.com