Why do we love sitcoms so much? Was it indeed ever about the content? Or the plot lines?
Hardly, It would seem that most people appreciate sitcoms because it’s a snapshot into a world that could be; yes, it approaches complex topics and addresses them in like manner. But if most of us were honest with ourselves, we like them for the apparent reason - entertainment value. But also because even in the worst situation, things usually work out for the better in the end… And we’re left with a happy ending, at least most of the time we are.
Sometimes not so much. We can all think of a shocking pivotal moment in TV history. But more often than not, what we are given episode by episode is a happy, cheerful environment.
We have certain expectations and know that they won’t kill off certain characters in a sitcom; when they are, we are flabbergasted. Why is this important? Because life is uncertain and constantly messy. We don’t know what life has in store for us. Sometimes, we wake up to realize this life isn’t what we expected. We ask ourselves if we could have seen “this” coming.
While others sit back, it seems like life is such a breeze, but it’s not. We’ve just learned how to be accountable and accept who we are. That right there is of the utmost importance. Owning up to who we are. We often think of ourselves as the hero in the story, but sometimes we’re not. Sometimes we’re the villain in the story.
We can dress it up and make all the excuses in the world, but at the end of the day, none of us fool the one who can see right through us. The great “I am.”
Unfortunately, some will never see the damage done by their actions, and some just flat-out don’t care.
Nobody is perfect except for Jesus, and the depravity of man is disturbing…
That said, although I know that not everyone has the same mindset, it alarms me that people can be insensitive and cruel to such a degree.
So to reevaluate, we like sitcoms because they provide a sense of security, a way to look at life and see things work out, and a happy situation that we can relate to.
Even if our life is anything but that.
Myself, I’ve had to eat my fair share of humble pie, and I’ve had to come to many conclusions about my life. But none of those conclusions involved blaming poor behavior on another. I will eat every last pie in the humble factory before I put those closest to me down for something I did or something I set in motion. I have had my share of less-than-fortunate situations in my life. But the realization at the end of the tunnel is… me! And I’ll never be able to escape myself or who I am. Not who I perceive myself to be, not who I’d like to be, but Who I am.
For some, there is no knight in shining armor coming to save you; for others, you won’t be riding off into the sunset… Sadly, life isn’t as pretty as it is in the sitcoms. That’s why we like them. Because for a half hour to an hour. We can feel secure and happy to see the story go from a troublesome plot line to a happy-go-lucky ending with some inspirational ending. And then we have to return to reality.
Which for some may not be terrible right now or a month from now. But eventually, life will throw a curve ball at you, and it will be.
However, if the situation is resolvable, I implore you to handle it as best as possible. You won’t regret fighting for what it is you need in life. Even if it’s what you’re running from or avoiding because of the implications, say it with me.
I MATTER! I HAVE VALUE! I’M A CHILD OF GOD! I’M WORTHY OF LOVE!
Now say it and mean it!