Life Lessons From Meredith Grey & Christina Yang

So, I have a confession to make: I am a huge Grey’s Anatomy fan. I have watched the show religiously since it began in 2005 and rarely miss an episode on Thursday nights. Since I’ve followed the show for some time now, I have become very attached to the characters. I understand they aren’t real people, but over the years, I have started to relate and appreciate each of these individuals.

The show centers around Meredith Grey, a doctor at Seattle Grace/Mercy West hospital, whose mother was a famous surgeon at the same hospital. Meredith’s best friend is the always intense Christina Yang, who is the first to swipe a surgery or reply with a sarcastic remark. The dynamic duo has faced tons of tragedy throughout the show including shootings, break-ups and most recently a plane crash. The two are now separated and must figure out a way to make their friendship work while being states apart and juggling their careers. While Meredith and Christina aren’t real people, there are a few things I’ve learned from them over the years.

1. The Art of Being Damaged: From day one, Meredith has called herself damaged; jaded by life events that have changed her. I never cared for the term ‘damaged.’ It has a negative connotation and makes a person sound below average. However, Meredith has comes to terms with being damaged and admits her shortcomings. In reality, everyone is damaged and has instances that trigger an emotional response. Admitting these triggers and accepting yourself based on them is the best way to function.

2. Be Passionate: Despite all the bad situations Meredith and Christina have been in, they still are in love with their jobs. You can see the fire in their eyes when they diagnose a tough patient or ace a hard surgical procedure. Being passionate even when curve balls are thrown at you is extremely important to success in the workplace.

3. “She’s My Person:” From very early on, Meredith and Christina were labeled each other’s person. Christina describes Meredith as her person because she’s who would help her hide the body if Christina murdered someone. Basically, your person is there no matter what and always has your back. Sometimes, both women forget that they have a person, someone else to rely on and confide in. The other one is always there to remind her that it’s ok to ask for help and that she is not alone.

4. Break Out the Tequila: I don’t mean literally break out tequila, though Meredith and Christina do frequently. You must take a break once in a while and relax in some way. Meredith and Christina choose a bottle of tequila and dancing around in their living room. If that works for you, great. If not, use them as a reminder to breathe.

Meredith and Christina have taught me a lot throughout the years as I’ve laughed and cried with them. Sometimes television characters can teach us valuable lessons even though they aren’t real people.