—
I don’t watch much television, with the exception of what happens to be broadcasting across one of a dozen screens at the gym or on Tuesday nights at 9 pm EST. It has become a nearly sacrosanct time for me, as I hunker down with tissues at the ready and with many others in their various homes, I laugh and cry and nod knowingly while watching the runaway hit, This Is Us. I’m not sure how I missed out on its launch and had to binge watch the whole first season in two weeks.
This groundbreaking, time-stretchy dance with all of the elements of a winning show (drama, comedy, mushy love stories, conflict, secrets, mystery and a full range of human emotions) had me hooked from day one. It centers around the Pearson family: Rebecca and Jack and their three children Kevin, Kate, and Randall. The first two are biological siblings; the survivors of a triplet pregnancy; their brother who was to be named Kyle, died during delivery. Randall came into their lives after being abandoned by his father at a firehouse and brought to the hospital where Jack saw him in the nursery next to his own children. In a moment of inspiration and grief, he knew Randall was meant to be their child as well.
My initial response was that it reminded me immediately of one my former faves: Thirtysomething. Being a Philly girl, I appreciated that the show which aired from 1987-1991 was centered around my hometown. In short order, I realized the reason why the writing style seemed so familiar. What both runaway hits have in common is Executive Producer Ken Olin.
She would turn to me incredulously and ask how I knew, once it had played out on the screen. I would sigh and remind her that I have been a therapist for 40 years and the dialog and dynamics between the Pearson family members were genuine and true to life. None of it feels contrived.
This past week, the 12-year-old daughter of Randall and Beth came out to her aunt, Kate. Tess had just launched into womanhood by having her first period. Her mother and father were out of the house at the time and Kate was the next best thing as Tess emerged from the bathroom, sanitary napkins in hand. As the two were having a moment, Kate waxed poetic about anticipating her first kiss and first boyfriend. Tess’ response was, “Or girlfriend.” Her aunt didn’t miss a beat and smiled in response, “or girlfriend”. She then encouraged her to share her revelation with her parents who she was certain would love her no matter what. As simple as that. No shock. No disapproval. Would that all family members be that accepting.
I am on a “This Is Us” Facebook page and was amazed and amused and, at times, dismayed at some of the responses. Most were approving and understanding. Some used their religious beliefs to judge the character’s desires. What had me shaking my head was the contention that a tween-aged kiddo couldn’t possibly know if she was gay or bi. How many Hetero people knew they were attracted to other sex people at that age? I would venture to say, many were. I can’t say for certain that sexuality is determined at birth. There is an expansive spectrum in which love is expressed.
May ‘Tess’ and everyone who is learning who and how they love, be embraced for it and know that we are all ‘us’.
—
What’s your take on what you just read? Comment below or write a response and submit to us your own point of view or reaction here at the red box, below, which links to our submissions portal.
◊♦◊
Get the best stories from The Good Men Project delivered straight to your inbox, here.
◊♦◊
Sign up for our Writing Prompts email to receive writing inspiration in your inbox twice per week.
—
Photo credit: Shutterstock