So this dude lamented to his friends that he had spent an entire year trying to change but “I’m still me.”
“Did you wanna be someone else?” one of his mates asked.
“Yeah,” he replied and paused and reflected before adding, “Someone better.”
Isn’t that all of us? Maybe not. You can’t see inside the hearts of others and we’ve all been betrayed, sold out and disappointed so many times that cynicism courses through our veins heavier than any drops of crimson.
“Human beings are never gonna be perfect, Roy,” one friend answered. “The best we can do is to keep asking for help and accepting it when you can. And if you keep on doing that, you’ll always be moving towards better.”
I saw myself in the conversation, and I think I saw a lot people I know in it as well. You can’t see inside someone’s heart. No, you can’t. Already said that. But you can read a face. And in the faces and mannerisms and tones of voice of a lot of people I know, I can see they’re struggling with the same things I do.
Just people. Running in circles in the sand. Doing their best not to just lay down and let the tide sweep them away out to whatever undiscovered land lays beyond the sea.
I saw myself in the conversation. I saw myself in the man. I saw myself in the show. I’ve written of it before, probably as many times as I’ve cried during its airings, and I’ll write about it again.
Ted Lasso aired its final episode last week. It has captured the hearts of audiences around the world. There are several reasons for its popularity, and these can be attributed to its positive and uplifting message, well-developed characters, balance of humor and heart, and timely themes.
At the heart of it is a central message about the power of kindness, empathy, and positivity. The show’s titular character, Ted Lasso, is a refreshing change from the typical aggressive and cut-throat sports culture. His personality and approach to coaching are grounded in a deep sense of empathy and compassion, which he uses to build relationships with his players and colleagues. The show celebrates the idea that a little bit of kindness can go a long way, and that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to maintain a positive outlook and make a difference.
One of the show’s strengths is its well-developed characters. Each character is complex and multidimensional, with their own unique quirks and personalities. The show takes the time to explore their backstories and motivations, making them feel like real people rather than caricatures. By doing so, the audience becomes invested in their struggles and triumphs, rooting for them as they navigate the challenges of life.
It strikes a balance between humor and heart, making it both entertaining and emotionally resonant. The humor is often light-hearted and wholesome, providing a much-needed break from the cynicism and negativity that can sometimes dominate popular culture. At the same time, the show is not afraid to tackle serious issues, such as anxiety, depression, and identity, with sensitivity and compassion. This balance of humor and heart creates a show that is both enjoyable and meaningful.
It is timely in its themes of empathy, inclusivity, and mental health. In today’s world, these issues are more important than ever, and the show’s approach to them is refreshing. It tackles them head-on, without shying away from their complexity, and provides a nuanced perspective that is both insightful and thought-provoking.
It’s such a well-crafted show that celebrates the power of kindness and positivity. Its engaging characters, humor, and timely themes have struck a chord with audiences and made it a beloved show. By embodying these values, it has become not only a source of entertainment but also a beacon of hope in a world that can sometimes feel dark and overwhelming.
“Human beings are never gonna be perfect, Roy,” one friend answered. “The best we can do is to keep asking for help and accepting it when you can. And if you keep on doing that, you’ll always be moving towards better.”
I see myself there. I see you there as well. Let’s promise one another a pair of things. We’ll never stop asking each other for help and we’ll never stop helping each other when we do.
(Josh Beavers is a teacher and a writer. He has been recognized five times for excellence in opinion writing by the Louisiana Press Association.)
