I never watched the show "Glee" when it was on television, mostly because I thought it was pointless and just a silly show about singing. Nevertheless, this summer it came up on my Netflix and as I watched the first few episodes, I fell absolutely in love with William McKinley and the story of the New Directions as they make a safe space for students who felt completely lost walking the hallowed halls of high school.
1. Stereotypes are just that, stereotypes.
We feel the need to take people and generalize them, instead of giving everyone the opportunity to pick how he or she is represented.
2. Sass is a necessary part of life.
Santana shows that you don't have to make everyone like you, but you sure as hell can make them respect you.
3. Friendships are never easy.
We've all been there, the tough let downs, the people who you thought would be in your life forever suddenly aren't there anymore. And you're left at a crossroad. Trust me when I say friendships take time and effort but most importantly they take honesty and forgiveness.
4. It's OK to want things for yourself in life.
If there's one thing you learn from Rachel Berry it's the fact that you can never dream too big. Sure she may be a control-freak, but she has ambition and drive and that's something this world lacks a lot of nowadays.
5. Never forget to be who you are.
I've learned so much from my dear pal Kurt Hummel. Throughout the show you really see his character transform into a confident version of himself, and though numerous obstacles are thrown his way, Kurt keeps fighting for a more understanding tomorrow.
6. Never underestimate the power of being a diva.
Mercedes is one hell of a singer, but her most vital quality is accepting herself for who she is. She's never afraid to tell someone how it is, and I think everyone could use a little more of that fire.
7. Rock your style in your own way.
Tina has the whole goth vampire look going on, but even when the school tries to change her she defies authority and challenges people to look past her apparel and see her for who she really is.
8. A good teacher can make all the difference in education.
I've been told my entire life that knowledge is power, and I truly believe that is what Will Schuester gave to his Glee Club kids. He supported, loved and overall cared deeply about the success of everyone who walked through the music room doors.
9. All people are different.
In this day and age everyone has differences, but that doesn't mean they should be discriminated for those differences, but rather embraced.
10. Never underestimate yourself.
There's always going to be someone who just seems better at something than you, and who knows maybe they are, but the idea is not to simply step down just because you don't think you can do something the idea is to turn right back around and fight harder for what you want.
Glee may be based off of high school students, but these lessons are ones we should carry with us throughout life. Be kind to people, treat others with respect, and always remember to fight for what you believe in. That's all Will Schuester ever asked of his kids, and that's all you should ever ask of yourself.
