Five shows that remind me of the good.

After trying to have a baby for an undesired length of time, you may have to remind yourself that there are positive things occurring every day. I hate that this happens to me because I generally try to stay positive. However, the tough moments are easier to move through when I escape to a television show that reminds me of the good in the world.

The time I spend watching these shows often involve laughter, tears, and belief in the greatness of the world. Thank you for adding positivity to my life during the hard moments.

1. Grace and Frankie

Two longtime friends are surprised when their husbands come out and share that they are dating each other. While the women have different approaches to life, they decide to move in together and share many adventures.

Thank you to my good friend, Meg for sharing this show with me. I love it! It showcases the diversity of families and the importance of support. The dynamics of their relationships as they navigate the newness together is refreshing. The reminder that life will never turn out as we have planned helps me process my current situation. Just because life isn’t happening on my timeline or according to the plan I created, doesn’t mean that it won’t be full of adventures. Embrace every adventure.

2. Jane the Virgin

An ironic addition to the list as the premise of the show is about someone getting pregnant after an IUI procedure is completed on the wrong person. Just remember that things on TV are always a little different than real life.

Jane has such a positive spirit regarding the circumstances she faces. The humor that surrounds such complicated events is refreshing. The telenovela has a great balance of romance and comedy. I often try to avoid any feelings as they can seem like too much during a fragile time. Jane reminds me that laughter and tears can be so healing. I spend each minute allowing myself to get connected and ride the rollercoaster of emotions. And each time it ends, I can’t wait for the next episode!

3. This Is Us

This is Us. A primetime television show that I don’t think needs introduction. However, if you haven’t heard of it, turn on your TV. In all seriousness, it is about a family and their approach to common life experiences that we often don’t talk about.

The community. I can watch this show and be connected to so many. The feeling of isolation is common during a long fertility journey. It is refreshing to have a common experience that allows me to make conversation with others. Not everyone wants to hear about your cycle day or the emotions that come with the two week wait. However, if you begin a story about what Kate or Jack did in last night’s episode… instant connection.

Warning: There are parts of this show that will hit really close to home. I recommend recording it and watching it as you are ready.

4. Atypical

Atypical is a story about a teenage boy with autism and his journey as he begins to date. While the accuracy of its portrayal of autism is up for debate, it has a heartfelt message.

This show allowed me to laugh for the first time in a long time. We are constantly making life decisions and having to work through the tough stuff. This show makes it feel possible to find humor in the challenging times. To laugh through some of the harder moments.

Jason and I enjoyed this show together. It was nice to laugh together. We enjoyed it so much that we covered the first season in a couple of days. I am anticipating the release of season 2!

5. Project Runway

This is an oldie, but such a goodie! Project Runway follows designers as they are presented creative challenges. Each episode showcases the struggle that they endure, the critiques, last minute scrambles, and ends with a runway show of their work.

These designers and their stories. They have endured many years of hard work to live their dream. They have listened to opinions by many. Their styles have changed as they grow. They continue to create even with failures.

How applicable. As they fail, they learn so much about themselves. I can’t help but feel hopeful at the end of the episodes as they share their feelings during the runway show. While the work may not be perfect, they have grown so much during the process. It reminds me to trust myself and continue to work toward my dreams. Even when I face failure.

This list is not all inclusive.

What shows do you find encourage and refreshing? What shows remind you there is good in the world?