Leslie Knope has a plethora of lovable traits, but I composed a list of my top 10 reasons to love Leslie.
1. She founded Galentine's Day
Thanks to Leslie Knope, Feb. 13 is no longer a day for women to fret about romance. Now, it’s a day that all women can dedicate their time to their friendships. Although there’s nothing wrong with Valentine’s Day, I am a big fan of the holiday that precedes it. Galentine’s Day is a fabulous holiday — second only to Treat Yo Self Day — and it is a day that all women hopefully celebrate. Leslie deserves a plate of waffles from JJ’s Diner for founding the marvelous holiday.
2. She loves waffles
Leslie values the little things in life. Whether that’s a waffle from the beloved JJ’s Diner or the wildflower mural in city hall, she never fails to see the beauty in anything. I think that we can all learn a lesson from her by grabbing a waffle and going out to appreciate the hidden beauties that life has to offer.
3. She supports local businesses
Not only does Leslie support JJ’s Diner with her waffle habit — she even had JJ’s cater her wedding — but she rallied a group of passionate locals to save it from the clutches of Dennis Feinstein. Everyone loves a local hero and that is exactly what Leslie is.
4. She always has s'more supplies
Have you ever gone on a camping trip, but left the s’more supplies at home? Nothing is worse, right? Well, have no fear because Leslie has got you covered. Thanks to her large binders of strategies and her emergency s’more rations, she is always prepared.
5. She is half of a great power couple
Another great trait about Leslie is that she married Ben Wyatt. The dynamic duo demonstrates a fair and loving marriage. They make a great team, especially when they are running campaigns. They both have their quirks, but that simply makes them an even cuter couple. They are definitely one of my favorite couples on television.
6. She is a role model
Leslie is the troop leader for the Pawnee Goddesses and she sets a great example for her little female warriors. She preaches the importance of equality and working hard to reach your dreams. The world would be a better place if there were more people who are as dedicated and passionate as Leslie; hopefully with her influence there will be.
7. She is a feminist
Leslie preaches equality for both men and women, and she challenges stereotypes. She creates job opportunities for women in male dominated fields and she stands up to anyone who questions those decisions. She stands her ground against male rights activists and delivers powerful speeches. She deserves to be Pawnee’s Woman of the Year.
8. She believes in herself
Although her friends in the Parks Department are always there for her, one of Leslie’s biggest supporters is Leslie. She believes in herself, which is an important and lovable trait. Whether she is leaving herself supportive voicemails or hanging her own portrait on her wall of inspirational women, Leslie knows that she will fulfill all of her prophecies in her kindergarten dream journal.
9. She is an optimist
Even when times are tough, Leslie never fails to look on the bright side. She translates people yelling at her as people just caring loudly. Although her logic can be a little twisted, she will always find the positive angle of any situation.
10. She is a great friend
She always supports Ann with her odd little compliments and she would do anything for her. Even though they can’t agree on their Riggins versus Saracen debate, Ann and Leslie are best friends. Although Leslie wanted April to be her prodigy, she helps April find her own dream job. She could not be more different than Ron Swanson, but she is the best work proximity acquaintance that she can be. Although her friendship is gift enough, Leslie also crafts incredibly thoughtful gifts for all of her friends.
I love Leslie as much as Leslie loves waffles. I hope that you can say the same!
