I used to thrive on drama. If a film or TV show promised heart-wrenching moments and gut-punching narratives, I was all in. I’d buy tickets or set up my DVR, ready to be swept away by despair and emotional turmoil. The thrill of experiencing raw, unfiltered reality through the screen captivated me. I reveled in the bittersweet tales that mirrored the darker shades of life.
But everything shifted once I became a parent.
I vividly recall diving into the pages of a dystopian novel while expecting my first child. The Hunger Games was gripping, but as I neared the end of the series, I started to feel a heavy weight on my heart. The world depicted was a brutal one—children in peril and a society in chaos. With my own baby on the way, I became acutely aware of the world my child would inherit, and it wasn’t a pleasant thought.
After my daughter arrived, every precious moment of downtime became a comedy fest. I found solace in reruns of The Office during those late-night feedings. I indulged in all those romantic comedies that made me laugh and forget my worries. I couldn’t even finish Parenthood, and now, as a mom of two, I can’t bring myself to start This Is Us. I have no doubt it’s a masterpiece, but I know it would leave me weeping week after week. I have enough real-life challenges that bring tears to my eyes.
Sure, I am missing out on critically acclaimed shows and films by steering clear of heavy drama, but I must prioritize my emotional well-being. The news, with its relentless stream of negativity, often feels overwhelming. Stories from around the globe can be heart-wrenching: from humanitarian crises to environmental disasters. With each headline, I feel the weight of the world pressing down on me, especially knowing that my children are growing up in such a complicated reality.
Given this backdrop of tragedy, I can’t bear to consume fictional stories that mirror it. When I finally find a moment to unwind and watch TV, I lean towards lighthearted comedies that bring a smile to my face without the emotional strain. I crave laughter and the absurdity of life over stories filled with violence and heartbreak. I need that reminder that while the world is not all sunshine and rainbows, it is also not solely defined by despair.
Perhaps one day, when my kids are older or I’ve toughened up a bit, I’ll revisit the realm of quality dramas. For now, though, I recognize that this approach suits my current needs as a mother navigating a complex world. Life is challenging enough, and when I turn on the TV, I prefer to escape into feel-good entertainment rather than confront more fictional hardships.
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In summary, while I acknowledge that I’m missing out on some incredible narratives, my focus remains on protecting my emotional health. In a world filled with challenges, I choose to fill my viewing hours with joy and laughter, embracing the lighter side of life.