When it comes to throwback TV, there really was a lot more to learn than how to crimp our hair. We will still never understand what it really means to be “so Raven.” Turns out, while we were jammed on the couch eating Flamin’ Hot Cheetos and slurping down clear Coke, some real life lessons were unfolding on screen. After digging through my memory and illegally uploaded YouTube videos, here are some of my favorites. I only wish we can bring some of these back as reruns (except for maybe “Friends” because after multiple Netflix binges and TBS marathons, it might be ok to go on a break for a while.)
Love can come from the most unlikely of places. (“Gossip Girl”)
With all the ups, downs and plot twists, things always took a turn for the unexpected (still not over when Dan ruined the proposal in Season 2). When Chuck and Blair first interacted on the show, things looked anything but promising for them to be a couple. However, characters all throughout the show found kindness and friendship in even the most unlikely of circumstances (Blair and Dan’s friendship, anyone?).
Everything is not always what it appears to be. (“That’s So Raven”)
The reason this show was so entertaining was because Raven had to learn the same lesson over and over again. For some reason the girl never understood that 99.99% of the time her vision was completely wrong, but that never stopped Raven from doing her thing – another lesson in owning any circumstance, and coming up with a disguise at any moment.
Mom is always right. (“Lizzie McGuire”)
Honestly, how many times did Lizzie not listen to what her mom said only to have her cartoon character alter ego admit to her being totally right? Mrs. McGuire served as a constant reminder that your mom will always be there for you, even when you tell her you hate her, buy the pants from the Style Shack after she told you not to, and lie to her about going to Kate Saunder’s 14th birthday party after she gave you money for cookies at the mall.
Great people will always be there. (“Friends”)
Without a doubt through all the ups and downs of life and multiple special guests that were entangled within each plot, the six friends always remained there for each other. (Cue “I’ll Be There for You” on repeat.)
Sometimes you are looking in the wrong place for the villain. (“Scooby Doo”)
Just like “That’s so Raven,” remember the number of times when the characters flew by the “nice old lady or man” in search of “the bad guy” that turned out to be a mop that looked like a ghost. Whether with friends, a boyfriend, or a stranger you met on the street, “Scooby Doo” taught us that people sometimes cannot have your best interest at heart.
I hope you enjoyed a stroll down memory lane. Now, go and re-watch a couple of your old favorite seasons now.