As if each episode of "The Fosters" doesn't leave our hearts wrenching, it also reminds us how important it is to live with an open mind. "The Fosters" is one of those shows that leaves you speechless because of how truthful it is about the world. Here are some things the show has taught me:
1. Don't judge.
From the day we were fresh from the womb to now, we are told not to judge others. It is definitely easier said than done, but it can definitely be done. Labels are a way for us to feel secure with who someone is in this world. Jude helps remind us that labels are a problem many people face because being judged for being themselves.
2. Be yourself.
Be bold and be different. The things that make you who you are should be embraced, not suppressed. The harder and longer it is for you to accept things about yourself, the more unhappy you will feel. Love yourself enough to be yourself.
3. Live fully.
I would tell you "YOLO," but I think that's a little bit overrated at this point. All in all, we've heard it all, to live to the fullest. No matter what situation you're in, soak it all in, good or bad, because it is the exact way it's supposed to be.
4. Listen to your intuition.
Forget what those around you are telling you to do. Whether it's with your career, schooling, relationships, listen to yourself. Don't let people dictate your life.
5. Apologize.
If you're anything like me, apologizing doesn't come easily. I've learned that you need to put away your pride and your ego, and just say sorry. Hannah Montana once said, "Everybody makes mistakes," so you're not the only one. Own up to whatever wrong you've done so that, one day, you can become a better you.
6. There's always someone there for you.
No matter what race, gender, ethnicity, status level you are, we all get a little lonely. Sometimes, it feels like it is you against the universe because everything in your world is crashing down. It is difficult to remember that we are not in this fight alone. There is always someone there for you, no matter what.
7. Nothing comes easily.
Robert James Waller once said, "Life is never easy for those who dream." We all have a goal we want to achieve, and along the way, there will be many obstacles for us to defeat. Overcoming adversities is what makes us stronger, and once we're stronger, the good will come flooding in. Dream on and be strong; your life will come together.
8. It's OK to be sad.
The pressure to perfect is an intense feeling, and when we do mess up, it rattles us. Being happy is said to be just a state of mind, that being happy is easy, but sometimes it is not that simple. There are many things that can keep us from our happiness. Usually it is ourselves, but I find that pretending to be content is worse than being sad. Don't conceal the sadness just because being happy is "easy." Go on and be sad. Cry it all out with a box of tissues and a tub of ice cream. You will feel happier the next day.
9. Love is a wonderful thing.
“You don't love someone because they're perfect, you love them in spite of the fact that they're not.” –Jodi Picoult, "My Sister's Keeper"
