I don’t watch a lot of TV, but I have to admit I’m a huge fan of The Biggest Loser. What an inspirational show. I love being able to see so many amazing people change their lives for the better. I don’t think I’ve ever watched an episode without crying or being inspired in some way. Especially lately. Like when Mark (one of the toughest competitors, in my opinion) had the realization that emotions aren’t a weakness, but a strength. I think that’s such a powerful truth. Doesn’t it feel good when you can be honest with people instead of putting up a facade? Acting like everything’s fine when it’s not, or trying to be someone you aren’t, can be discouraging. But being real opens doors for true friendship and trust. I was glad to be reminded of that.

And speaking of crying, I must’ve used a whole box of Kleenex watching American Idol ‘s Idol Gives Back. Not only because of the people that touched my heart (like that heroic 15 year old boy in Africa who is taking care of his three younger brothers), but also because of the spirit of giving that permeated the show. It’s an emotional thing to have so many people rally around a cause. As I watched, the “sress” of my day seemed trivial. Almost ridiculous. And instead of dreading the three loads of laundry I still needed to do, I was grateful that I had the water and washing machine to do them with. Instead of being frustrated about the mess of books on my son’s floor, I was thankful to have those books. And it was wonderful to see my kids want to reach out and make a difference as they watched, too.

Even though I’m sure there were other things I could’ve been getting done instead of watching TV, that’s okay. When I can turn it off and know that I’ve learned something or that I’ve been inspired to do something positive, I think it was TV worth watching.