Oh, Netflix. Sweet, sweet Netflix. Where would I be without you? Your comforting red, white and black draws me in like a beacon — my cursor flies to the bookmark bearing your name and from that first click, I know I'm home. Over the course of our long relationship, you've been the source of much happiness, many sleepless nights and perhaps most importantly, several life lessons.
1. Netflix taught me that it’s always nice to check up on others.
Whether it’s your high school friends you haven’t talked to in a few months, your grandparents or your little sister, you can’t go wrong reaching out to check up on your loved ones. Maybe it doesn't have to be as judgy as when Netflix does it, but to each his own. (Seriously, though, Netflix. You know I'm still watching.)
2. Netflix, you taught me I can be whoever I want to be.
You should never try to be anyone other than your most comfortable self. And if that means you're a yellow mummy, cool! An orange smiley face? Sure. Yellow penguin? Yep. Green cyclops? Go for it. Be you.
3. I learned that if you want to share your opinion, you always can.
The review section is only a few clicks away, if you can tear yourself away from the newest season of "House of Cards," that is. And the review section is always a ride from start to finish, so hold on tight and soak up all you can from the masterfully written feedback. I mean, the Shakespeares of our generation hang out in the Netflix review section. It is truly a learning experience.
4. There's no substitute for the real thing.
And Netflix, you're the one who taught me that. Where else can I go for commercial free binge-watching any time I want? Hulu's nice, don't get me wrong, but Netflix, there's something about you that no other streaming service has been able to match. I like to think it's your charm and familiarity, but I think that deep down, we all know it's the lack of commercials, high-quality visuals and impressive selection that makes you the apple of my eye. And if we're keeping it real, have you ever heard anyone extend an invitation to "watch Amazon Prime and chill"? *chants* NETFLIX, NETFLIX, NETFLIX!
5. I learned what determination is.
It quickly became clear to me that if I really put my mind to watching an entire season of "How I Met Your Mother" in one day, I can! And I can probably watch a few episodes of "Grey's Anatomy" on the side, too, because I am #determined, and it's all because of you, Netflix.
Cheers to you, Netflix. Not only do you keep me entertained for hours on end and foster my anti-social nature, but you have brought great and immeasurable wisdom to my life. And for that, I'm eternally grateful.
