Lent rolled around quickly this year, and I wanted to give up something that would actually be difficult for me. I tried to think about something I depended on, something that made me happy, a true sacrifice. Netflix was the one. I went through a series of realizations (and a few withdrawals) in the 40 days without movies and series at my fingertips.
1. I realized how impatient I am. YouTube became my best friend. I needed instant entertainment at the click of a mouse as soon as possible. Any and all genres were on this site, and while it didn't satisfy my thirst for "Fuller House" (which came out just a few weeks after Lent began), it would do for a week or two.
2. I realized how lazy my generation is. Because of my inability to watch "Parenthood," I figured there was no better time like the present to watch actual television. Can you believe what I went through to do that? I had to look up the channels for basic cable in my area, memorize my favorite ones, find our remote, and actually, tune into the shows and actually pay attention because I can't rewind. Unbelievable. This is Stone Age stuff.
3. I realized how much I intentionally distract myself. I love background noise. When I clean, write, do homework, anything. I have to have something keeping me on schedule. When this episode is over, I should have chapters 1 through 3 done. Without shows or random sound, I became lost in my own thoughts, and that is a scary place to be, my friend.
4. I rediscovered my music obsession. Because there wasn't any binge watching to entertain me, I went back through my old music collection and let myself enjoy a few wild throwbacks, as well as purchase some new loves. (Everyone go listen to "Hamilton." It doesn't matter if you like musicals)
5. I realized I didn't miss it all that much. The first week or two was a little hard to get out of the habit of clicking on this site. After that, I became consumed by current events and what is happening right now that I forgot all about "90210" and Liam's abs.
I'm pretty darn glad I did this, and I recommend anyone else my age to consider it. There is this sense of freedom you feel when your extra time is consumed by a screen. Happy Easter, everyone!
