"This Is Us" is one of the best shows on TV right now, and many fellow TV show watchers like myself have been obsessing over this show for maybe the same reason - it's based on real-life events that can happen in anyone's life at any time. It's funny, emotional, heart-warming, real, family-centered and most importantly: relatable. I started it about a week or so ago, and I'm already caught up with the current episodes. For all of you who haven't had the chance to watch it yet, don't worry. The show is still in its first season so you have time to catch up. Each episode is unique and offers insight each of the characters' storyline within each episode. That's one of my favorite parts about the show -- that there are so many different storylines all happening at once, but yet, they are all connected. But, most importantly, I like that "This Is Us" offers life lessons that we can all learn from or that we can remember what life (and family) is all about. Here are 9 things I've learned so far this season (SPOILERS AHEAD):
1. The importance of family
The old saying goes, "Blood is thicker than water," and this to me means that no matter what happens or what obstacles come your way, your family is going to have your back more so than anyone else. I adore my family, and even though sometimes we may have our disagreements, they are one of the most important things to me. They support me, comfort me, push me, guide me, protect me and love me for every piece of my being. This show is centered around the family and the love that binds them together. After watching this show, it reinforces the importance of family, and it makes you want to go and give all your family members the biggest hug imaginable.
2. Don't be afraid to be playful and goofy
Sometimes in life you just need to remember to laugh, be silly, be goofy and to just enjoy the moment. Dance around your room, sing loudly so everyone can hear, laugh uncontrollably and don't apologize for being the sunshine on a cloudy day. This one can also apply to relationships too: no matter what comes in your relationships way, don't forget about the playfulness, love and silliness that your relationship has in its foundation.
3. Don't be afraid to let go of things that don't make you happy anymore
Much like Kevin, don't be ashamed or afraid to step away from the aspects of your life that are no longer making you happy. Kevin was stuck in a job that he didn't like whatsoever. He was miserable, and he had higher aspirations. While I don't recommend throwing a tantrum or causing a scene like how he decided to leave this career, thinking about what your dreams and aspirations are in life, and letting go of those things that don't lead you in that direction isn't bad whatsoever. This doesn't just apply to your career either. If you're in a bad friendship, relationship or situation that isn't making you happy or advancing who you are as a person, then reconsidering being in that situation isn't a bad step.
4. Be Spontaneous
If you love someone and want to be with them, say it no matter when or where you are. We are only given so much time on this earth, so why not live your life to the fullest? Kate and Toby's whole relationship is unpredictable, much like life is. They break up, they are back together, Toby surprises Kate by flying to visit her for Christmas and then (SPOILER) he has a heart attack on Christmas Eve. But after waking up in the hospital and before going into to surgery, Toby takes a leap of faith and tells Kate that, "I'm kind of in love with you," which leads to somewhat of a marriage proposal. Later on after his surgery, Kate pours her heart out to Toby while he is still asleep, confessing that she wants nothing more than to spend her life with him. To her surprise, Toby heard the whole thing and he proceeded to open his eyes and say, “I’d marry the hell out of you, Kate Pearson.”
5. Life sometimes isn't fair or doesn't go as expected
6. Being a parent has its hard moments, but it's so rewarding
Jack is really the best parent ever in this show. He is always there for his kids to help them, comfort them or to encourage them. He lives each step of their lives with them, and makes sure that all three feel special. Jack and Rebecca work together to show that being a parent is a rewarding, and sometimes maybe a tough endeavor, but seeing their kids thrive makes it all worth it. This is one of my favorite moments with Kate and Jack that really shows the care that Jack has for his kids as well as the father-daughter relationship that exists between him and Kate.
7. Be thankful for your siblings—never take them for granted
Having siblings can be difficult, no matter how far apart you guys may be. But two siblings who are the same age as you? I can't even imagine. However, Kevin, Kate and Randall are the "Big Three," and even though they have their issues and moments where they don't get along, their foundation is built on togetherness and friendship. It's interesting to see how the three of them interacted when they were kids versus how they interact as adults. Kevin and Kate seem to be the closest of the three, but the bond between all three is unique. Each sibling is different from the next and each brings their own unique characteristics to the big three. They remind us that no matter how different or distant you are from your siblings, it is still important to cherish them forever.
8. You don't have to deal with personal issues alone
Randal from the very beginning of the show faces some tough, personal issues. As an adopted child who had been abandoned, he had no idea who he was, who his parents were and where he came from. As he matures into adulthood, he does find his birth father, but William (his birth father) has cancer and doesn't have much time left. Between handling that, his job and his family, Randall loses sleep and becomes very overwhelmed. He even misses Kevin's performance, but luckily his big brother knew just how to help- by comforting him. We all face personal issues throughout our lives, and sometimes we just need a hug or comforted in order to be okay.
