I'll be there for you: growing up watching Friends

I started watching Friends (1994) in Year 7. I can't say I've revisited it since finishing all 10 seasons. But somehow I always know it will be there for me, waiting to welcome me back.

Since Matthew Perry's passing in 2023, I've been hesitant to ever watch the show again. I know I wouldn't be able to laugh the same way at all his jokes the same way I did when I was 12. Despite not being my favourite character, Chandler and his sarcasm shaped my own sense of humour in a way. My loved ones all roll their eyes at my sarcastic comments in a similar way that Chandler's friends rolled theirs.

I watched Friends at a very pivotal point in my life so its no surprise it influenced much of who I am today. Rachel validated my shopping addiction and convinced me a career in fashion wasn't as unattainable as I originally thought. Monica and her neat freak tendencies made me feel seen. So what if a girl can't function normally unless every aspect of her life is written down and colour coded? Joey and his undying loyalty to each of his friends reminded me that caring is cool. We're not here for a long time - tell people that you love them. Phoebe made me learn that being yourself is the bravest thing you can - and ever will - do. She also taught me that being whimsical will always get you far in life. And Ross... well, he was just sort of there.

Like I said, I haven't properly sat down and watched the show in a long time. Occasionally, I will put it on as background noise when I'm cleaning my room and I'll somehow remember the plot of a random episode within the first few seconds. All the niche references and quotes are tucked away in the crevices of my brain which is probably just a sign of re-watching all the seasons far too many times. Maybe one day they will come in handy.

But for now, Friends will remain as the peak of nostalgia. Coming home from another wretched day at secondary school to watch six young adults live out their lives in new York was somehow exactly what I needed. However, I can guarantee that, in the not so distant future, it will be exactly what I need once again.