Sadly, after 7 seasons, we must say goodbye to our beloved show, Parks and Recreation. This show made us laugh more times than we can count, but it also taught us about life. Tom and Andy taught us to hold onto our childhoods, Donna and April taught us about independence, and Ron taught us to do all things with integrity. The show's main character, Leslie Knope, is the perfect mix of intelligent, funny, dedicated, and just plain awesome. Her words of wisdom will forever live on in our memories. Here are some of the numerous lessons Leslie Knope has taught us about being powerful women:
1. Friends Always Come First
Hoes before bros, uteruses before duderuses, ovaries before brovaries. Your friends will be there for you through the good and the bad, so make sure to be there for them in return.
2. Go After Your Wildest Dreams
Work hard, and do whatever it is you need to do to achieve your goals, even if that means saying “no" to some things. No dream is too big.
3. Stay Positive
If something isn't going your way, don't sweat it. Keep a positive mindset because that's what Leslie Knope would do.
4. Treat Yourself
Sometimes it's okay not to order a salad (or kale) when you're out to eat. Who doesn't want a juicy burger now and then?
5. Don't Give Up
Not everything you do in life will be easy, and not everything you work for will come easily, but it's important to keep trying .
6. Celebrate Your Friends
Oh, it's only the best day of the year! Ladies celebrating ladies. "It's like Lilith Fair, minus the angst. Plus frittatas!"
7. Be Confident
You are fabulous and intelligent. Use your gifts, and don't be afraid to flaunt them.
8. Breakfast Isn't Just For The Mornings
Bacon. Eggs. Pancakes. Waffles. Sausage. Orange Juice. There's nothing better than breakfast food.
9. It's Okay To Be You
Wear what you want to wear. Do what you want to do. The people that matter will support you no matter what.
10. There Are Different Types Of Soulmates
Ben and Leslie are undoubtedly a perfect match and an unstoppable power couple, but so are Ann and Leslie. There's more than one person for everyone.
11. Don't Let Men Stand In Your Way
You are just as smart, strong, and powerful as the next guy, so don't let anyone tell you that you aren't
But above all else….
12. Your Happiness Is The Most Important Thing In The World
Make time for your friends and indulge once in awhile because work can wait. There's nothing that a plate of waffles can't solve.
We will miss you, Leslie, and your beautiful soul.