Six years ago, the final episode of the hit TV series "The Hills" aired across the world leaving millions of people wishing it was not the end. Unlike many shows, the producers did not leave us hanging as to what happened. Each character's story was ended with their own segment and a little flashback to previous episodes of "The Hills" as well as "Laguna Beach". They even threw in a little curveball for its viewers; the moving of the Hollywood backdrop as Kristin and Brody said their goodbyes. Personally, I began wondering how true Kristin’s decision to move to Europe was.
Recently, I decided to re-live the entertainment I obtained in watching my guilty pleasure and I was surprised at how much more I understood what was going on this time around. At the time the show was playing on TV, I was younger and naïve as to how crazy our lives can get. Break ups, friendship losses, moving to the next step in relationships; all that life throws at us can get pretty crazy sometimes and this show was the perfect representation that all of these endeavors are an actual reality. I’m sure that many of you can concur with me that many scenes hit you hard in the feels, especially if watching at this point now in your lives.
1. The beginning scene
As Audrina, Kristin, Lo and Stephanie discuss where they are currently at in their lives, it suddenly hits you that the show is ending. Watching this now, I realize just how accurate of a representation this scene portrayed real life events. Currently, I am at a place in my life where friends are coming and going and that is due to all that life has to offer. Friends getting married, friends having babies, friends starting their careers; many of us are at a point in our lives in which it is unfortunately not how it used to be. “It’s the time in all our lives (mid-twenties) where we make the decision of who we want to be.” Such a simple statement made by Lo, but so deep and accurate of a realization.
2. Kristin and Stacie’s conversation
As Kristin and Stacie sat by the fire, Kristin opened up about her feelings towards Brody and life in general. She discussed her meeting with Lo, Audrina and Steph explaining they were all in happy places in their lives. She eventually proclaimed “It seems like everyone’s life is changing in a great way, which just got me thinking, what am I doing?” Many times throughout the year, I have thought this myself. Friends are graduating college and starting their careers and I am having a difficult time getting passed community college. Seeing the lives of those around you coming together and not seeing that for yourself provides great difficulty seeing past the negatives of the situation.
3. Lo and Scott's anniversary
On a happy note, Lo and Scott celebrated their one year and came to the realization they wanted to take that next step in their relationship and move in together. As they sat and talked about their desire to get married, it became clear that they truly were happy and had something that is rare these days.
4. Kristin saying goodbye to Brody
I am almost positive that the world did a little jump for joy together as Kristin saw Brody walking towards her as she prepared to get into her limo. Kristin saying “I cant believe this is really goodbye” hit me so hard. Realizing that nothing lasts forever can really get to you. As a lyrical "Unwritten" played, flashbacks were shown, creating the ultimate feeling of sorrow. Makes you think about past times with your friends, huh?
5. Kristin’s Goodbye Party
As stubborn as Brody acted about making an appearance at Kristin’s party, we all knew what to expect. He wouldn’t let her down! His tearful proclamation asking her not to leave was a part of the show I will never forget.
6. Audrina Moving
As Audrina and Stephanie visited Audrina’s new place, they discuss how things have changed and the club seen is no longer for them. Audrina stating that everyone was doing their own thing and questioning what would happen with everyone portrayed a pretty powerful message. Over time, the friendships we develop fade out as everyone starts to do their own thing in life, but the memories acquired over the years will never fade, for they are etched in our minds forever.
Many times in life we are faced with hardships and troubling times. Watching this show at an older, much more mature age where responsibilities are more predominant, it is a lot easier to relate to what these character's were experiencing. Watching the finale six years ago, I was able to relate somewhat, but on a different level. I didn't have as many responsibilities and life hadn't thrown as much my way.
If there is anything that I hope my readers take away from this, it is that life is going to be hard sometimes. But guess what? It will get better again. Life would not be what it is unless we went through suffering and distress to make us strong. When going through hardships, step back up because everything is going to be alright.
