It has been four long years since the CW's show "One Tree Hill " aired its final episode, but with the series on Netflix, it is hard not to go back, reminisce and, of course, sing the ever so catchy theme song "I Don't Wanna Be" by Gavin Degraw (admit it, you yell it out every time). It's also good to reflect on the personality of each character portrayed, and think about what you've taken away from the show. Each character had so much background and personality, it was hard to not be affected throughout the nine seasons. With that being said, there are some spoiler alerts in this article, you have been warned. Here we go —
1. Brooke Davis: From popular high school cheerleader to successful fashion designer.
Brooke Davis is absolutely one of my favorite characters in the history of "One Tree Hill." I have, to be honest, in the beginning, I totally hated her for the way she acted, but then I loved her. Brooke has taught me that it's OK to not settle for less than I deserve and waiting for the "one" is hard but so worth it. Also, she taught me that someone will always try to label you and make you feel inferior, whether they tell you that, "You're not pretty enough" or "Not skinny enough," you just have to remember that "People are going to label you. It's how you overcome those labels. That's what matters." And let's be honest, she was totally badass when she and P. Sawyer were held hostage.
2. Haley James Scott: Tutor Girl/Wife/Mom/Pop-Star.
Haley James Scott was one of my favorites as well (and I'm not just saying this because we share a name). She was also the wisest of the "OTH" cast, rightfully so as she was (is) tutor girl. Haley taught me that although you are young, it is okay to know what you want in life whether that be career wise or with love. Haley taught me that in order to achieve my dreams I must really strive for them and never give up. She was a perfect way to show young adults to never give up on something you love and to never regret it because at one point it was everything you ever wanted.
3. Lucas Scott: Star Basketball Player/Writer/ Uncle/Husband/Father.
Ah yes, the almighty and extremely hot, Lucas Scott. But he wasn't always the basketball star. In fact Lucas seemed pretty shy and kept to himself (for like the first five episodes), but then he broke out of his shell and tried something that he never thought he would. Which is what he taught me. That it's OK to try new things even though you are afraid of failing — you miss 100 percent of the shots you don't take. And I think that's why he's one of my favorites because he did something that I never thought I would. Lucas also showed me that it is fine to be unsure of somethings like career and love, but it's best not to dwell on them. He taught me to love the life you're given, no matter what wildcards are thrown your way.
4. Peyton Sawyer: Artist/Club Owner/Wife/Mother.
Ah, yes, the extremely lovable and charming Peyton Sawyer. Of course, throughout the series Peyton has shown nothing short of being so strong. From being shot during the school shooting to being held hostage by psycho Derek, P.Sawyer has shown me how to push through the rough times (and the really scary times) because you have to believe everything will be OK. She has taught me that I must do whats best for me before I can think of anything or anyone else. She has reminded me that not everybody leaves especially not those who truly matter. People come in and out of your life and changes happen sometimes rapidly, but it's how you handle those changes that makes you who you are as a person. You are not a survivor, you are a fighter, a warrior, and you can handle anything that comes your way.
5. Nathan Scott: High school Jock/Husband/Father/NBA star.
If we are going to be honest, Nathan Scott pissed me off so much at the beginning of "OTH." I seriously hated him! As time went on I began to realize he was simply brought up that way, but to watch him blossom into such a beautiful character was the best. Nathan experienced heartbreak in the worst way when Haley left. That is what I learned. That it is OK to try to cope with loss, but it must be done the right way. He never gave up when it came to Haley. When his chances of an NBA career were damned, he stayed dormant a bit but realized it was his dream — one he could never picture his life without. He was someone who had to grow up fast, and he made the best of it. He is the perfect example of someone who knows exactly what they wanted and got it. He reminds me that life happens fast and without warning, so if you even try to take a moment for granted, you may just miss it.
"One Tree Hill" is my happy place. Even though sometimes it can be pretty hectic, I love the bond between the characters and how each one has a unique trait about them or their life that contributes in such a special way to the show. We are reminded that life is a beautiful gift, and it happens fast. Although sometimes it can be scary, we must remember we are warriors and we decide who we are in the world. We are not the labels given to us by those who do not know our struggle, and I thank this blessing of a TV show every day for allowing me to experience it through such strong characters' eyes.
