Worldly wisdom need not come from ancient philosophical treatises, it can be found just as readily in contemporary media, such as the TV show Friends.

Nicola Mayer | Staff Reporter

If people know me, even in the slightest, they know that I’m obsessed with the T.V. show Friends. Despite the fact that my obsession started with watching random YouTube clips of episodes and having all the somewhat sexual jokes go over my head, I was hooked. At this point in my life, I’ve seen every episode probably at least 5 times and still find each joke hilarious, possibly even more so because I’m so emotionally invested in the characters.

While this show does have some aspects that seem unrealistic such as the fact that the characters can afford those fancy apartments with their jobs or that they’re all able to hang out at Central Park all day, through 10 seasons, Ross, Chandler, Joey, Monica, Rachel and Phoebe taught me some valuable lessons.

First, Friends has taught me that you will find a way to be with the people you’re supposed to be with. Ross had his eye on Rachel since high school and we watched them be on again and off again for 10 seasons until she finally got off the plane. Not many would have predicted the Monica and Chandler romance, but London happened and they were perfect for each other. Despite the obvious high school and familial connections some of the characters share, that group of 6 was not a bunch that was meticulously planned out and strategized. People end up with those who are right for them.

Another thing Friends taught me was that as careful as you may be, life will give you unexpected turns and it’s how you react to them that defines you. It isn’t wrong to take the time to mourn nor is it mad to complain about an unfortunate situation, but you need to surround yourself with people who will make those situations bearable.

Most importantly Friends taught me to accept the quirks of the people you care about. Sure Rachel is a little materialistic, and Joey takes longer to process a common thought than most people, but ultimately they are good people. Find people who share your values and let the little details go, if you focus on the big picture, you will be happy.
Among many other things, to quote the Rembrandts, Friends taught me that true friends will “be there for you.”

So if you’re one of the few people that hasn’t joined the bandwagon since Netflix introduced the show in January, you should probably get on that.