Leslie Knope is the most beautiful and brilliant feminist role model to ever grace our televisions. And the best part is her portrayer, Amy Poehler, is basically the living, breathing real world iteration of the government diva. So we couldn’t let Amy’s 44th birthday go by without celebrating Parks and Recreation’s leading lady. Without further ado, here are 44 words of wisdom Leslie Knope has inspired us with.
1. There’s always room for improvement
2. And breakfast!
3. Especially waffles
4. It’s okay to be your own role model
5. Ladies first… sorry, fellas!
6. Binge-watching is downright educational
7. Sleep is for the weak
8. Haters gonna hate
9. If you don’t like it, don’t eat it
10. You are untouchable
11. When all else fails, quote Friday Night Lights
12. Don’t even try to relate to today’s youth
13. Be the Eleanor Roosevelt you want to see in the world
14. Break the rules if need be
15. Math, a pointless waste of time
16. Girl code at its finest
17. Own up to your actions
18. Lean on your friends for support
19. PREACH
20. You’re worth it
21. Recognize the real issues
22. We all make mistakes
23. Always jump to the most dramatic of conclusions
24. Hold on as long as possible
25. Inventing holidays that celebrate women is, like, the most feminist thing you can do
26. Yelling = love
27. Go big when you’re insulting a foe
28. You’re someone’s inspiration—even if everyone else thinks you’re just annoying
29. Know your level of chill
30. Reach for the stars
31. Find someone you love and like
32. Believe you can be as unstoppable as a centaur
33. Never doubt yourself
34. Don’t be afraid to show off
35. Self-encouragement is the key to success
36. Life’s short; eat dessert ALWAYS
37. Pies and your career are equally important
38. Make your feelings known before it’s too late
39. Patriotism is important
40. The library is the worst
41. Don’t mess with milkshakes
42. Compliment your friends often
43. Just do it
44. Dancing speaks louder than words
