As I am scrolling through the Buffy episodes looking for one to watch, I am just thinking about how grateful I am for the show and the immense impact Buffy has had on my life.
When I first started watching the show, I was too young to understand as I was 8. My first memory of understanding the lines was when I recited a Spike line that he said to Buffy to a classmate who asked if she could talk to my male friend privately. When I was 15 years old that was the moment I understood the show, I was immature for my age so I still didnt understand most of it.
The first and arguably most important concept Buffy taught me was inner strength. Especially in season 6 when she is battling mental health, she struck a cord with me. When I have bad days I used to think of her going into the double meat palace with the same look on her face as I had and it gave me the courage and strength to face the day.
Secondly, I learnt how to channel my negative energy through the Buffy characters. Seeing the action and the fights Buffy and the gang face was cathartic to me. Also the little quips during arguments inspired me to come up with my own, which empowered me to not let the negativity effect me. Buffy inspired me to follow the beat of my heart and not let others opinions get to me or control my view of myself.
Thirdly, I am more empathic to other people's problems and I have become a better listener. Buffy has taught me about the struggles that different people go through and how it effects them emotionally. How it changes them. The character of Faith has a complex background of trauma and abuse, which I relate to and so do many of my past aquaitances. I've learnt to be patient and understanding. To always offer an ear.
Upon my Sarah Michelle Gellar worship era I also found Cruel Intentions which helped me navigate my friendship with my male classmate. He is a lot like the character of Sebastian in cruel intentions and has similar traits. With this information I have learnt how to get my voice heard to him and how to understand my place with him and get into his head. I've opened up a softer side to him and learnt about myself along the way.
Buffy has inspired my love for film and literature because the show is so well written. I won't forget the lessons and the skills the show has given me. I have been enlightened to the depths of human nature and sensitivity.
Buffy has given me strength.
Willow has given me nerd power.
Giles has given me knowledge.
Xander has given me a good laugh.
Faith has given me baddie power, sultry dark lipstick and a leather jacket.
Dawn has given me childlike wonder.
Spike has given me a love for poetry and quips.
Angel has given the right to expressing emotions and sensitivity.
Joyce has given me a cup of hot chocolate with mini marshmellows.
Cordelia has given me the power of a good outfit.
Tara has given me the right to accept my introversion.
I wouldn't be who I am without these characters and this show. I am eternally grateful ❤❤❤❤