In light of the much-anticipated sequel to "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" released earlier this week, I took a trip down memory lane and re-watched the original movie, and when it finished, I realized something that I never had before: this movie, in all its greatness, was literally my life in the making. And I don't think I'm the only one; maybe it's a Middle Eastern/Mediterranean thing, or maybe it extends to big families all around the world, but one thing's for sure: this is definitely one of those movies that speaks to me, so here are all the reasons why this beautiful film runs true in MY life.
1. They don't want you to leave home...probably 'till you get married.
Family is very big in my culture, as it is in the movie. Toula Portokalos's family wants her to stay home because it's an involved existence, and amen to that. That also includes college...for my brother and I. A close university and a strong relationship with fam equals a happy existence.
2. They're always in your business.
This one's fun. Not necessarily a bad thing, because at least they care, but on the care-o-meter it's off the charts. If you get a job, an A on an exam or catch a cold, your grandma, 10 uncles, and 25 cousins will know. No matter what.
3. They want you to find a "perfect person" and get married.
Again, positive reinforcement is never a bad thing, but after a while the single life becomes the "100 cats lady" who can't figure it out. That line in the movie, "Find a nice Greek boy," that Toula's father always uses when she's older? Yup, a similar reincarnation is probably looming on the horizon.
4. Everyone wants to know everything... Always.
I imagine that this is what it's like to have 14 siblings, no privacy and no filter whatsoever. Is that question off limits? Nope, not when 20 people are in the room and they all want an answer. Get used to getting over awkward situations, because that is just part of the package.
5. Really close-knit family.
Definitely more of a pro than a con in the long run. Studies have proven that the closer you are to your family, the better you are as a person. They know you better than anyone, and, therefore, understand you and can help you with literally anything. There's no advice that they don't have in their back pocket, and they're more than willing, eager even, to lend you their opinions. You can count on at least two to three at the least. Toula definitely got that, from her wedding invites to constant relationship advice, she was never lacking, and neither am I.
6. Never stop eating...or it's an insult.
"Why you no eat, you don't like my food?" is honestly one of my all-time favorite quotes in the whole movie, and probably the one I hear the most, like daily on multiple occasions, no matter what. If your plate is empty you are a dishonor. Keep eating, or face the consequences. End of story.
7. Appearance is key. No sweats.
I struggle with this, because college. Yoga pants are the bane of my existence, as is no makeup and a ponytail, but the consequence? A sigh and a judging eye roll from my mom. Every occasion is an opportunity to get dolled up, whether 8 AM class or a dinner with the family. Don't even get me started about events in Lebanon. The easiest explanation is the wedding in the movie, which sums that one up pretty well.
8. Getting an education is crucial.
Hands down the most important accomplishment. College? Not an option, but part of life. Are you getting multiple degrees? Bonus points on the favorite scale. Are you graduating with honors? You better.
9. Other members of your family are always doing better than you.
"Look at your cousin and how successful she is, why can't you be more like her?" Pop quiz: movie quote or a daily part of my life? Plot twist: both. Got an A on your midterm? Well, Dad's brothers daughter just graduated from med school, and she's a neurosurgeon. Nothing is ever going to be on top for the fam, at least not to your face. But in front of the extended family? You're always the beacon of light and hope for humanity. You win some, you lose some, but hey, that's life.
10. Windex is life.
Nope, not a myth, or a joke. Windex really does solve everything, and it is strangely a relief to find another family (even though they're fictional) that live on that same bandwagon.
11. Yes, the weddings are big.
Every event is done to the nines, and weddings are definitely not an exception. More like a competition. Think I'm joking? No, we here in the U.S. are big believers of cute "backyard weddings," so intimate and serene. Not in Lebanon, and not in the movie. If at least 400 people and the prime minister aren't at your wedding, then you done messed up. No stops are pulled, and no expenses are spared. Google "most extravagant weddings in the world," and I will guarantee that at least two are in Lebanon. Hands down.
12. They're very big on cultural pride.
"Remember where you came from, and let that lead you to where you're going," is yet another overlapping theme in both the movie and my life. Always show off your culture, and never hesitate to share it with others, because you should be proud to be who you are and where you're from. That is something that I learned from before I can remember. Also, we invented the alphabet, numbers, and algebra. Just in case you were wondering. *drops mic*
13. They love you unconditionally.
I saved the best for last because, honestly, this one rings the truest. All joking aside, being a part of a big family that's sometimes {mostly} crazy can get exhausting sometimes, but I wouldn't trade it for anything, and neither would Toula. I can't imagine having a family like Ian's, small and boring, missing all the laughter and gossip, and some of my best memories. At the end of the day, they only want what's best for me, and while sometimes they go to slightly extreme measures to get there, they only do it because they love me no matter what and want me to be happy and successful. So yeah, maybe my family is weirder than yours, but they're pretty darn cool, and in the end, being unique is being special, and being different is always better.
And Toula said it best: "My family is big and loud, but they're my family. We fight and we laugh and yes, we roast lamb on a spit in the front yard. And where ever I go, whatever I do they will always be there." And that right there is absolutely irreplaceable.
