No matter what social media you check regularly, it is all over your feeds: 13 Reasons Why. And there is a reason for it -- several reasons actually. No matter if you chose to read the novel by Jay Asher, to watch the Netflix Original series, or to do both (like me) you will come out with a deeper appreciation for people. You will have a deeper appreciation for life itself too, that is of course after you finish sobbing because you will feel like your heart has been hit by a transfer truck. Here is a breakdown of thirteen important lessons to take from 13 Reasons Why:
P.S. No spoilers were revealed in the making of this listicle.
1. Everything that you say matters.
This first one is the most important. Chapter after chapter and scene after scene 13 Reasons Why proves just how significant every word you say is. Whether you are talking to someone you just met, a person you consider your best friend, or talking about someone to another person, it matters. Words DO hurt.
2. Always be kind.
Every chance you get, be kind. Spread love. Pay it forward. Smile at people when you walk past them. Even if someone is unkind to you, do not reciprocate the negative energy. You have no idea what is happening in someone's life behind closed doors. Your smile or compliment just might make someone's day.
3. Adults make mistakes too.
Not only do teenagers mess up, but so do adults. We might have thought our parents were perfect when we were younger, but they aren't. And that's okay. For some reason, our society has built this facade that once we grow up we have to be perfect and responsible. When we aren't we feel like we've failed. It's okay. Don't give up. Try again tomorrow.
4. Rape is rape.
Just because the word "no" isn't spoken out loud doesn't mean it wasn't forced. Just because the person didn't fight back doesn't mean consent was given. Someone who is unconscious cannot be held accountable for their actions.
5. Never leave someone who is upset.
If someone is clearly not okay, do not let them tell you they are. Continue asking what's wrong until they talk to you. Don't walk out that door.
6. Do not drink and drive.
We've all seen the horror stories. Some of us may have already lost people to drinking and driving. For whatever reason, we don't all listen. It won't hurt you to sleep it off at your friend's house no matter if you think you are " totally fine". It's always better late than never.
7. Don't believe everything you hear.
Not everyone tells the truth 100% of the time. Shocking, I know.
8. Be spontaneous.
If you love someone tell them. Don't be scared to ask your crush out. But don't be so spontaneous that you're choices become dangerous. The lines can be blurry, but deep down you know what's good for and what isn't. Trust your gut.
9. Tell someone when they are in the wrong.
Please, please, please do not stand by and watch. Standing on the sidelines when someone is being bullied is just as bad as being the bully yourself. Stand up for people. You would want someone to do the same for you.
10. Talk to people you normally wouldn't.
Just because someone doesn't dress the same as you doesn't mean anything. You could end up being the best of friends. Who doesn't need more friends in this life?
11. Love deeply and fearlessly.
When you love someone, don't let them go. Love them more than you've ever loved anything in life. Care for them, and make sure they know you do. Tell them every single chance you get.
12. Be passionate.
Do things that you've always wanted to but never did. Practice what you are good at. Never give up what you love. Whether it be playing sports, singing, or writing believe that you can do it.
13. Help.
If you have even the slightest belief that someone needs help, help. Don't assume that someone else will. Be the change that you wish to see in the world. Talk to them. Listen to them. Most importantly, believe them.
