So, I’ve waited a long time to write this article surrounding my favorite show in the whole entire world and I felt like now would be the perfect time. This past Thursday, September 22, 2016 was the 22^nd Anniversary of the first episode of the historical sitcom, "Friends." I’m here to explain why another year of this show and its consistent popularity has meant so much to me over the years.

For most people, “friends” is just a word for people that you surround yourself with and make some unforgettable memories with. To me, it is so much more than that. I know writing this is going to make me come off as crazy and obsessive but, been there, done that. When Friends premiered on September 22, 1994, I wasn’t even close to coming into this world. Yet, when I started watching the show my freshman year of college, my life changed. Just like my real friends, Ross, Rachel, Chandler, Monica, Phoebe, and Joey are six people who I have laughed and cried with. Even though they don’t know I exist. They have gotten me through my worst and have always been there to put a smile on my face. There aren’t enough words to describe my love and admiration for something that may be a show to some people but, to me, is a lifestyle.

Don’t get me wrong, I know I probably sound pathetic with how excited I constantly get every time "Friends" is playing on TV or a reference is made in the media. You’d think after watching all ten seasons from beginning to end over 50 times (literally) I would have settled down. You’d think the jokes would get old and the monumental moments wouldn’t be surprising but I always have the same reactions, no matter what. I know more about this show and these six characters than anything else in my life and I have no shame.

Green, Tribbiani, Bing, Buffay, and the Gellers have made me happier than any normal person should be while watching a TV show and they have taught me so much along their own character development. Sometimes I even feel like I have grown up with them. Rachel taught me that being a little materialistic is okay as long as I’m a genuine person. Monica showed me that it is fine to be neurotic and controlling at times. Phoebe’s amazingly weird personality set a stage for me to be a little crazy. Ross’ unimaginable thirst for knowledge kept my nerdy side alive. Chandler’s endless jokes really did make me into a more sarcastic person and now I am more comfortable laughing at myself. Lastly, Joey directed me to always try my best to be sweet, even when others aren’t the same towards me. I always try to take a little piece of them with me through everything I do.

I guess I know why they call the show "Friends." They have truly become a part of me and, like real friends, I can always count on them on good and bad days. They have created such a big and beautiful story that I wish I could thank them for personally. Since I cannot, I would just want them to know how grateful I am for them always being there for me (pun intended). If you are wondering if I’ll ever get over this obsession, the answer is definitely no. Here’s to everything they have brought to my life and to 22 more years on my TV screen.