Let’s face it; television has played a large role in the lives of everyone in our generation. And though some may argue that we spend far too much time engulfed in the imaginary world of TV, I can confidently say that every show I have ever been addicted to has given me something positive to walk away with. Here are some TV characters that have taught me a thing or two over the years.
Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City
Yes, I admit, I was one of those people hopelessly obsessed with Sex and the City (who am I kidding, I still love that show). Of all four fabulous women, however, Carrie taught me most about love and life. Between her on-and-off relationships, her awkward insecurities, and her shoe shopping addiction, I came to realize a lot about what the adult world would someday throw at me. The most important thing I learned: you may find love, but your best friends will forever be your soulmates.
Rachel Green, Friends
Rule of thumb: you either love Friends, or you’re wrong. I’m only half kidding. But seriously, who hasn’t wasted precious time watching reruns of this iconic show for the millionth time? Though all the characters are lovable for different reasons, Rachel’s success story really speaks to me. Starting out as the spoiled kid starting a new life in the big city, ending as a successful working mom who finds love with her best friend, Rachel makes me believe that you can be destined for greatness once you take that leap of faith and make a change.
Butters Stotch, South Park
Literally the cutest character on the show, Butters stands apart from the rest of the South Park characters in that he is usually not as vulgar or mischievous. In a cruel and crude world, Butters proves that a sweet personality can still be found. Though it is sometimes taken for granted in South Park’s satirical universe, it has been shown time and again how refreshing a gentle demeanor can be.
Joan Holloway, Mad Men
This show has some of the best and most profound characters I’ve ever seen, but my favorite, by far, is Joan. Not only is she stunning beyond belief, but also headstrong and managerial in an era when women tended to be cast aside. Though Joan could be seen in a lot of ways as the “ideal” 1960s woman, she isn’t afraid to let society dictate her life. It’s been proven that the office is a sunken ship without her, and she’s always doing everything with a smile. This is a valuable lesson to learn: cool and collected will get you what you want, without the hate.
The Entire Cast of Glee
The task of choosing a single most influential character from this hit show proves to be too difficult, so I’m nominating them all. With each character’s story line, Glee writers address so many different issues that teens today are forced to face, and they give people the courage they need to be proud and confident. Biggest lesson learned: no dream is ever too big, and you shouldn’t have to change who you are to get there.
Photo Sources:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/34/Carrie_Bradshaw_opening_credits.jpg
http://www.angelfire.com/mt/friendsrocks/images/ja037.jpg
http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20101010031212/southpark/images/6/60/Innocent_Butters.png
http://scrawledinwax.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/mad-men-joan-holloway-240c-083109.jpg