How Television Shows Have Shaped My Real-Life Experiences

Introduction

Television shows have powerfully impacted my life in ways I never imagined. They have not only entertained me but also educated and transformed my perspective. This article delves into how a few select shows have left indelible marks on my personal development and behavior.

The Cultural Reawakening with Roma

Roma, directed by Alfonso Cuarón, provided me with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the culture of Mexico, a country I had visited multiple times but never truly comprehended. The film's rich narrative and detailed cinematography offered a window into the lives of a maid and a middle-class Mexican family in the 1970s. The movie not only highlighted the complexities of familial relationships but also casually introduced me to Mexican traditions and daily life. In this context, it’s noteworthy that the new chancellor of UCLA, Dr. Julio Frenk, is a Mexican physician and leading global health researcher, formerly the president of the University of Miami. This connection highlights the global and cultural significance of such films.

Awareness and Empathy through The Grapes of Wrath

The Grapes of Wrath, a classic novel adapted into a film, deepened my understanding of the struggles of ordinary people in dire circumstances. The movie depicted the Joad family's harrowing journey during the Great Depression, emphasizing the themes of resilience, poverty, and the quest for a better life. This film opened my eyes to the plight of those whose lives are dominated by circumstances beyond their control. It reinforced the idea that seeking and receiving help is a sign of strength, not weakness. This valuable lesson has remained with me and continues to shape my approach to supporting others in need.

Navigating Life with Oprah Winfrey’s Wisdom

One particular episode of the Oprah Winfrey Show profoundly impacted my personal journey. The show discussed different cultures' views on beauty and the importance of accepting one's unique appearance. Growing up with Puerto Rican birth parents and Italian parents who raised me, I always desired straight hair due to its perceived beauty standards. For years, I endured the painful process of straightening my hair, using harmful chemicals that could cause burns on my scalp. However, an episode on the Oprah Winfrey Show advocating for self-acceptance and embracing one's natural beauty changed everything. After watching this episode, I decided never to straighten my hair again, focusing instead on cutting and styling it. Today, I only color my hair to maintain my youthful look, symbolizing my commitment to my unique self.

Sci-Fi and Personal Anxieties

Some television shows have also influenced my personal beliefs and behaviors in unique ways. For example, the Probe series, featuring David Cassidy, aired an episode where a character was killed after stepping into a false floor, which was revealed to be a hologram. This episode led to a strange quirk – when no one else is around, I check the solidity of the floor before stepping fully in. This seems quite irrational, but it's a testament to how deeply embedded certain plot points can become in one's subconscious.

Another episode from L.A. Law further cemented my distrust of elevators. Two characters were seen talking in front of an elevator, and when the doors opened, one character stepped in and fell to her death because the elevator wasn't there. To this day, I am wary of elevators, and whenever I visit a new building, I often check if the floors are secure before stepping in. This obsession with safety and security is a result of a single, albeit dramatic, episode.

Reflections on Recent Shows

Some shows have made me angry just thinking about them. One notable example is Star Trek: Discovery, which, despite its popularity, does not meet the standards I hold for the Star Trek franchise. The series strays too far from the core values of exploration, diplomacy, and equality that define the original series. This emotional response serves as a reminder of the importance of authenticity in the shows we enjoy and the impact they can have on our personal identities and values.

In conclusion, television shows have had a profound impact on my life. They have expanded my cultural horizons, taught me valuable lessons, and shaped my behavior in both positive and occasionally quirky ways. These experiences highlight the power of media to influence and inspire us in our daily lives.