Every time that I am ever emotional, Grey's Anatomy is the solution, always. People say that there are so many problems with the characters in the show and how it's completely unrealistic for one group to go through that much. And while that may be true, I see the issues as a metaphor for the different hurdles in our own lives. Because even after all the chaotic issues shown in the show, the important processes to move on and heal are also portrayed. And that is what got me through half the crap life has thrown at me thus far. So, here are six quotes from my favorite show of all time, that spoke volumes to me.

"Yes, horrible things do happen. Happiness, in the face of all of that, that's not the goal. Feeling horrible, and knowing that you're not gonna die from those feelings, that's the point."

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In this scene, Meredith's therapist opened her eyes up to the complexities of life. I mean, you think you're alone with all the chaos and the madness. But in reality, everyone has a story. I learned this during my senior year of high school. I was at an age where I just lived in my own little world. not highly exposed to other perspectives. But as more of my friends opened up to me about their own struggles, it was actually quite humbling. I realized that I wasn't alone. I realized that I could survive these feelings. Despite being drenched in hopelessness, I realized that there was still a small light at the end of the tunnel.

"Don't let what he wants eclipse what you need. He's very dreamy, but he's not the sun. You are."

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There was a time in my life where I hated the fact that I was single, and now there are still passing moments where I'm like "Ah, well that'd be nice." But whether I am single or not, I am happy to be reminded of this scene, to never forget what I deserve. A guy may be all sunshine and rainbows, but if he doesn't respect your needs alongside his own, then he isn't worth it. I know that situations are more complicated than they seem, but sometimes, they don't need to be.

"Trauma messes everybody up. Maybe that's the point. All the pain, and the fear, and the crap. Maybe going through all of that is what keeps us moving forward- what pushes us. Maybe we have to get a little messed up, to step up."

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This quote made me actually appreciate the trauma that I've been through. As much as I want to shit on the universe for having dealt me a shitty hand of cards, sometimes I'm thankful for it. Because without having been through all the crap, I wouldn't have the insight that I do. I definitely have ways to go, and many more things to learn, but for now, I'm a humbler and more empathetic person for it.

"Shut up. Dance it out."

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I cannot even count how many times I've danced out my problems. No further explanation needed. Like, if you have a problem, dance it out. How do you think I'm about to get through the school year? Sometimes you just need your people by your side, and some music. Watch your problems disappear, even if it's just for a second.

"Deep down, everyone wants to believe they can be hardcore. But being hardcore isn't just about being tough - it's about acceptance. Sometimes you have to give yourself permission to not be hardcore for once. You don't have to be tough every minute of every day. It's okay to let down your guard."

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Don't keep everything bottled up. Although I'm an emotional gal, more often than not, I have my walls up. I always consider the possibility of being a burden on my friends and family because I hate to drop my baggage on anyone, even slightly. So the times I do open up, I end up bawling and then feeling pathetic about it. But in all honesty, I have amazing people by my side. Empathetic, beautiful, kind-hearted people. And I don't give them enough credit for how understanding they actually are. It's okay to break down and cry. It's okay to feel things because we are humans! In my experience, they'll chime in with a relatable experience, showing you how normal it is to feel the way you do. There was actually one very late night where my friends and I were at the campus library, each with medium pizzas of our own, just eating and crying together about our problems. Granted, it was 3 AM, and we were all very tired of school at that moment, but it was a therapeutic night, and I love them to the moon and back.

"At some point you have to make a decision. Boundaries don't keep other people out; they fence you in. Life is messy, that's how we're made. So you can waste your life drawing lines or you can live your life crossing them. Here's what I know, if you're willing to take the chance, the view from the other side is spectacular."

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This sentiment can apply to anything you want it to. But it's important to live life with a little bit of risk. From changing your major, asking that guy out, being honest about how you feel with someone, disagreeing with your parents, to just being plain nontraditional, live your life the way you want to. As cliché as it may sound, some things are worth staking your reputation on. I always think, "what if the closest I get to the moment is now?" Take the chance. Go for it. Life's too short.

~ keep breathing ♥