On September 22, 1994, lives changed forever when the TV show "Friends." premiered on NBC. The series would last a total of 10 seasons, but is having much more of an impact than predicted. Multiple generations are introduced to "Friends"; reruns are always showing on multiple television networks. After watching the episodes more times than I could ever count, I have come to the conclusion that there are many life lessons that this simple sitcom taught me. Some lessons are funny and some are serious, but they all are true.
1. A clap is very serious.
Ever since watching this introduction so many times, I highly judge people when they do not clap at the designated part of the theme song. Something so simple makes me rewind the beginning to make the person next to me clap along with me if they missed it the first time.
2. A couch is not going to fit up stairs.
No matter how many drawings or diagrams you draw or how many times you yell to pivot, you are not getting a couch up a narrow staircase. You should just pay the delivery fee or find a new couch.
3. Always have a good pick-up line ready.
Whether it's a phrase as simple as Joey's, make sure you have one handy that will work. As Joey taught us, it comes in handy.
4. Have friends who cheer you up with sarcastic comments.
Sometimes, all you need in life is someone who will listen or, as Chandler does it, interest you in a sarcastic comment.
5. Siblings will do anything to make you happy.
I am not saying you have to carry your brother's baby to make them happy, but Phoebe was the proof that siblings love you, even at ridiculous requests. I suggest maybe asking them to bring you home ice cream rather than carrying a baby.
6. Sometimes you have to work from the bottom to find your way to the top.
Sometimes we have to take jobs we don't like just to keep us going. Don't give up if you're not where you want to be yet. After all, Monica went from looking for her "left boob" to being a head chef.
7. The real world sucks.
Growing up is definitely not all that you thought it was going to be. You have to cut your credit cards that are tied to your parents' accounts, pay rent and get your own "big girl/boy" job. Your friends are going to help encourage you, though.
8. It's OK to admit your flaws.
Hey, it takes a real person to admit their flaws. It may just lead you to someone who accepts every flaw about you.
9. There are other ways to flip somebody off.
Have you ever been in a situation where you really wanted to flip the bird, but you couldn't because kids, relatives or someone was watching that you shouldn't do it in front of? Well, look no farther because this show has given you away to accomplish it!
10. Always say the right name at the altar.
This one really is more self-explanatory and common sense, but hey, we learned exactly what would happen if you say your ex's name at your wedding. It's not pretty.
11. Absolutely nothing wrong with a girl's night.
There is absolutely nothing wrong in having a girl's night by drinking and eating your feelings away. I just wouldn't suggest wearing wedding dresses in case a "Joshua" shows up at your door.
12. Really define "break" when you take one.
Oh yes, the famous "we were on a break!" line that Ross said multiple times throughout the series. If Ross taught us anything, it's that 1. If you're going to take a break with someone, really define what that means. 2. Still don't cheat on Rachel. 3. Always follow the trail if you decide to cheat on your "break." Just makes life easier.
13. 18 pages, front and back, is a big deal.
Always, always, ALWAYS finish reading a letter before you agree to something �— even if it is 18 pages, front and back.
14. Your true love can be your best friend.
Monica and Chandler became a love story that everyone sought after and truly admired. They have proved that sometimes, your best friend is your soul mate. After all, who knows you better than your best friend? Watching these two fall in love has made me tear up a few times, if we are being honest.
15. True love never dies.
The love story of Ross and Rachel will never get old. It was always complicated through 10 seasons, but it ended perfectly by this line. Ross and Rachel are the definition of, "If you love something, set it free. If it comes back, it was meant to be." No matter how rough or complicated things can get, true love will always win in the end. Like Phoebe said, he's her lobster.
