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Reflecting back to our teens, family, friends and teachers are often credited with providing us the tools and confidence to survive those awkward years and develop into productive adults. Although this holds true for me, The Simpsons must also be included on the list of those who made a difference in my life. That's right, Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie helped me get through some troubling times by showing me a lighter comical side of life, that made me realize I often approached life way too seriously and needed to ease up on myself.

Although each episode is full of crazy antics and catastrophes, there is always a lesson to be learned. More often than not I could relate to the trials and tribulations of the characters and came away ready to face my own issues with a more objective mindset. A half hour of laughter, at a crazy cartoon family, resulted in more enjoyment in my own life.

Homer's insatiable thirst for beer often results in conflict and more trouble than he can handle. Most of his actions involve no forethought and lack any level of common sense, yet he has a big heart and tries to do the right thing. When push comes to shove, and it matters most, he is there for his kids. This bald portly man caused me to evaluate my own parents. Their alcoholism and arguments had always been our normal way of life. For years I had struggled with this aspect of life, and desperately hoped for a solution to the problem. I came to see I couldn't be responsible for the actions of others and holding out hope for change only caused myself disappointment. Looking at things objectively, I realized that like Homer, they had always been there for me. The drinking and fighting were common place, but I was still loved, supported and encouraged. I learned their personal shortcomings weren't a reflection of their feelings for me and although they may not have always used the best judgement, they tried their best.

I had always been a gifted student, and upon reaching my teens became tired of the stigma that accompanied this title. I was determined to bring about change to develop a new persona. My grades slipped as I skipped classes and balked at homework. I was enjoying new found popularity at the cost of my education. Little Lisa Simpson served as a role model. She embraces her intelligence, rather than hide it, and pretends to be nobody other than who she is. Confidence may not be her number one asset, but she doesn't let that stand in the way of her dreams. Although her

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