It feels like just yesterday. It was springtime in 2002. Rain was falling, flowers were blooming and there was an abundance of advertisements for a new reality TV show. Not a reality show based on fighting and drama – but a singing competition. Out of curiosity, myself and millions of others, nationwide, decided to tune in. Little did we know that we would fall in love with the contestants (because who doesn’t love people with talent?!), that we would attend a majority of the tours and fangirl over being in the same breathing space as people we watched weekly on TV, and that we would be absolutely heartbroken when the show finally came to an emotional end. That’s right, folks, after 14-years and 15 seasons, "American Idol" closed its audition doors, and celebrated its series finale on April 7.
A majority of college kids today grew up with "American Idol." We were able to witness Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood compete for fame and make their way to the top of the charts within a few months. We were able to jam to a Jordin Sparks song that just-so-happened to feature Chris Brown. We were able to hear "Live Like We’re Dying" by Kris Allen on the radio, and only after researching the catchy tune, realize that it was the talented, guitar-playing cutie that beat Adam Lambert in Season Eight -- which, let me tell you, was the beginning of an uncontrollable love that would last six years… and counting. "American Idol" has had a large impact on both our taste in music along with the music industry itself by filling the two with numerous amounts of talented people. "American Idol" did something else that is very important: it taught us to always follow our dreams. In honor of 15 memorable seasons, I would like to present you with the 15 most important life lessons "American Idol" taught us.
1. "A Moment Like This."
You might feel as though life is tough, and you might never get past the hardships, but you will. Your time will come, and the wait will have been worth it.
2. "Flying Without Wings."
Not all superheroes have capes, and not all angels have wings. Always be nice to people because you never know what they are going through. and the struggles that they are facing. Small acts of kindness can change their lives.
3. "I Believe."
Always believe in yourself, and the power you possess. You have the power to change the world, but only if you believe you can.
4. "Inside Your Heaven."
Heaven is a place on Earth if you are doing what you love. Always follow your dreams and your heart, and they will lead you to the place you are meant to be.
5. "Do I Make You Proud?"
Treat people the way you want to be treated. At the end of the day, only your opinion of yourself matters. You must live a life and leave a legacy that you would be proud of.
6. "This is My Now."
Live in the moment. Let go of the past and don’t stress too hard about the future. Life can change in an instant, so appreciate what you have while you have it.
7. "The Time of My Life."
Soak in any moment that makes you happy. Take pictures so you are able to reminisce on the times that made you overjoyed.
8. "No Boundaries."
There are no boundaries when it comes to following your dreams.
9. "Beautiful Day."
Go on spontaneous adventures! Enjoy the crisp weather and spend these beautiful days doing things that make you feel exceptional and healthy.
10. "I Love You This Big"
Admit your feelings. If you have the opportunity to say the way you feel, do it. You never know if or when you will ever get that perfect opportunity back.
11. "Home."
No matter how successful you become, never forget where you came from.
12. "I Am Beautiful."
Be confident in yourself and the person you are. You are beautiful. You are strong. Don’t ever let others tear you down.
13. "As Long As You Love Me."
Let love in. Do not fear it. Do not run from it. It’s okay to let your guard down and let someone in.
14. "Beautiful Life."
Sometimes, you have to go through hell and back to reach success. But eventually, you will find happiness and live an overall beautiful life.
15. "Falling."
Falling is an important aspect of life. If you never fall, you are never forced to pick yourself back up.
Thank you, "American Idol," for introducing us to some of our favorite artists, for supplying us with endless laughs and tears and for giving us life lessons that have changed our lives forever.
