What I Learned About Parenting from “The Golden Girls”

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Like many, I was heartbroken to hear about Betty White’s passing on December 31. She wasn’t just a comedic icon; she represented the beauty of aging gracefully. Her departure also struck a personal chord with me because she was the last living link to “The Golden Girls,” a show that has influenced my life in more ways than one.

I’m not alone in my obsession with “The Golden Girls.” I’ve watched each episode countless times and can often predict the next line. But my connection to the show goes deeper. I first caught episodes when I was just eight, huddled with my grandma on Saturday nights. It became our cherished ritual. My grandma was undoubtedly a Sophia—bold, sassy, and never one to shy away from speaking her mind. I, on the other hand, was a blend of Rose and Dorothy, with a dash of Blanche’s flair. As I mature, I realize I embody all of their traits, which is a testament to the show’s brilliance. The characters felt like family, and their lessons still resonate with me today.

One of the most significant takeaways from the show is the value of making others feel valued. When my grandma called out, “Hey, Jess, ready to watch the Girls?” it made me feel seen and special. This connection is crucial for kids—they crave inclusion and acknowledgment. We can engage with them by playing LEGOs or reading books, but it’s essential to share our worlds with them, too.

Lessons Learned from “The Golden Girls”

Watching the show alongside my grandma, I’ve learned some profound lessons:

1. People may forget what you say or do, but they will always remember how you made them feel. My grandma may have been a bit rough around the edges, but she made me feel wanted and important, a feeling that sticks with you.
2. Families can be messy, but that doesn’t make them any less beautiful. Each character dealt with their family dramas, yet they faced these challenges with grace and humor.
3. Family is about love and acceptance, not just biology. The Girls showed that real family is determined by the bonds we create. It’s crucial to respect our loved ones’ choices, even if we don’t fully agree with them.
4. Setting boundaries is essential. Love doesn’t mean tolerating everything. For example, when Blanche’s niece caused chaos, Blanche knew it was time to set some rules.
5. Embrace who you are. Each character, despite their stereotypes, owned their identities and constantly strived to improve themselves. We should do the same for our children and ourselves.
6. Food brings us together. Whether it was cheesecake or heartfelt conversations at the kitchen table, the Girls knew how to bond over shared meals.
7. You’re never too old to feel fabulous. It’s about how you feel inside, not just how you look. Each character exuded confidence, proving that age is just a number.
8. Life doesn’t stop after middle age. The Golden Girls proved that there’s so much more to experience and achieve, even in later years.

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In summary, “The Golden Girls” taught me that through connection, acceptance, and love, we can navigate the challenges of parenting and family life. The lessons from the show continue to inspire me every day.