Sadly, Parks and Recreation aired its last episode February 24th, 2015. Seven brilliant and quirky seasons roused every viewer with joyful glee. This novelty comedic American series displays lives of several jocular office mates working for the town of Pawnee's Parks and Recreation department. Ron Swanson, played by Nick Offerman, is the director of the department and in my opinion, the most impactful character on the show. Ron Swanson embodies virtues that I can only hope the current generation of young men and women can emulate.
1. Brutal Honesty
Ron Swanson unceasingly offers his authentically raw, shocking, unwarranted opinions and responses to others questions. Though many are uncalled for, Ron's honesty shatters the superficiality seen in the lives of the youth of this generation--they often seek to represent a false self to please others.
2. Simplicity
Many have witnessed the troubles that wealth can bring people, Ron never chooses to get caught up in that. He allows what he has to be enough for him and maintains a true peace while holding tighter to adventure, beauty and the taste of good food.
3. Hard Work
Growing up with a strict father, Ron Swanson worked jobs such as running the floor at a sheet metal factory, working at a steel miller, a tannery job, and woodworking since a very young age. These experiences taught Ron the value of hard-work, making your own way in life, and seeking excellence in what you do. He despises laziness. Due to the skills he has gained, he uses his expertise to benefit several co-workers throughout the series.
4. Growth
Ron Swanson develops progressively throughout the series, especially during his marriage with Diane. His character develops into a self-sacrificing husband and father. He becomes willing to embarrass himself, as well as invest an adequate amount of time to serve his family. His growth relays to the audience the vital message of accepting where you are not, but not being content to stay there.
5. Ability to Listen
Though Ron may voice to others that he: does not care about them, wants to be alone, and hates social interaction, these are such insecurities that he soon moves past. He relentlessly serves Leslie and Tom as a mentor in their lives. He aids Tom during the complexities of his upcoming business, Rent-A-Swag, and helps Leslie deal with her roller coaster of emotions. He cares, listens, and responds with wisdom.
