The worst day of my life was March 23, 2016, when I found out the most crippling news on the entire face of this planet — Shemar Moore, known as the beloved Derek Morgan on "Criminal Minds," was saying farewell to the series. Through my tears, utter heartbreak and sudden urge to binge-watch every episode of the crime show ever created, I pondered the many blessings that Derek Morgan has graced viewers with for nearly 11 seasons and how his character has affected me on a personal level. Here are five things I learned from Derek Morgan through the years:
1. How a person should be treated
Not only did my heart swell every time Morgan called Garcia “baby girl,” but the way that Derek Morgan always showed the utmost respect for the people he was around is a quality that more people need to embody.
2. Protect the ones you love
We all know that Morgan was the muscle behind the BAU, but stemming beyond the physical aspect of protection, he never failed to stand up for the ones he loved. Whether it was staying with Garcia to make sure she was safe in her apartment, or helping Reid pick up girls, Derek Morgan was always there for his loved ones.
3. Hard work is the only credit for success
Through the years, we got glimpses into Morgan’s past — where he grew up, his circumstances, etc. He always came out on top, though, and this is through the endless amount of hard work he put into his success, going to show that things are rarely just handed to you without ever having to earn them.
4. Tell it like it is
No matter what, say what you mean and mean what you say. Derek Morgan is my idol because he always speaks his mind and isn’t afraid to tell you to take a step back and calm down.
5. You need to have great eyebrows if you want to go far in life
Enough said.
Farewell, Agent Derek Morgan. You will be missed by many.