Our world is best described these days as polarizing. You can't go a day without hearing someone being upset at someone else, most likely for something that doesn't even affect them. It seems these days that less and less people listen or respect one another. We are always so quick to judge, without knowing any information. We assume that our current outlook and perspective is enough to go on.
In 2006, a television show aired that explored what would happen when people from different walks of life, with different perspectives came together for a common goal. Over five season, you grew with these people and their flaws. You applauded their triumphs, and you felt their failures as your own. You began to see things from perspectives you may have never gotten the chance to before.
"Friday Night Lights" was that show, telling the story of the residents of Dillon, Texas and focusing even more on the high school football team led by head coach Eric Taylor. "FNL" would birth some of the most memorable characters in television history, whether it was Coach Taylor himself, his wife Tami, or even the legendary Tim Riggins. And it reminded us all that with family and friends by your side, nothing is impossible.
From the pilot episode (one of the best ever in my opinion) to the nearly perfect series finale "FNL" told the stories of real people dealing with real problems. In it's time on air the show touched on all issues that plagued and continue to plague us, whether it be the racial divide or class warfare. It was unapologetic in the way it handled tough issues, while still managing to be palatable for a family to watch together. It's a show that is desperately needed in today's day and age. In a world more divided than ever, we often forget the things that make us the same. Something as small as a high school football game in a small town brings together everyone regardless of race, riches, sexual orientation, etc. Cheering for your team and your community makes a family of us all.
"Friday Night Light's" was a show about love, and about hard work. It didn't shy away when faced with a difficult discussion. It wasn't perfect (season 2 I'm looking at you), and it still may have fallen on the teen drama side of things a little more than people would like. But it represents the part of America that makes it the greatest.
The American spirit believes also is infused with love and hard work. With defiance in the eyes of injustice. With actions when they are required no matter the cost. It's the part of America that has gone missing in recent years, or at least harder to find. But the stories of the residents of Dillon Panthers were dripping with it. Whether it was the selfless sacrifice after selfless sacrifice that Tim Riggins made for the people he loved. Or the unconditional compassion and wisdom Coach Taylor brought to the young men he taught, the show always demonstrated that character is at the heart of all of it.
It's at the heart of all the decisions you make and the person you are. And I think that we need that desperately right now. Because with clear eyes, and full hearts, you can't lose.