90s Television

Though my birthday is in September, I got my very first December birthday present from my brother last week. He got me season four of Boy Meets World. This made me exceptionally happy. I have always been a big fan of 90s television sitcoms, Boy Meets World being tops among any you might be able to name. I am sure it works out that most people are nostalgic for the shows that were on when they were growing up, but Boy Meets World holds a particularly special place in my heart. 

I can remember very vividly when I was little the spectacle that TGIF was. There was something completely magical about the lineup of TV shows that was on Friday nights on ABC. Part of the reason it was such a spectacular ordeal was that I got to stay up an HOUR after my bedtime on Friday nights to watch TV. In the eyes of any small child this was akin to giving me a gigantic ice cream sundae. A whole extra hour of TV was about all I could think to wish for. I would snuggle up in my jammies and sit on the living room floor to watch all the great shows. Family Matters, Full House, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Boy Meets World, Sister Sister, and Hanging with Mister Cooper are the ones that come to mind right away. Then, of course, there were the shows that really didn't hang around for more than an episode or two like My Brother's Keeper and Teen Angel. Somehow eating a bowl of grapes also tends to sneak into my TGIF memories, but perhaps that's just because I really like grapes. 

No matter how touching the episode of Full House or how much I laughed at whatever predicament Urkel got himself into or how cute I thought Harvey Kinkle was, there is something about Boy Meets World that makes me want to watch the series over and over again. Having just finished the fourth season in three days, I feel I am at excellent authority to tell you all the reasons it's great. 

1. Friendship- The bond between Cory, Topanga, and Shawn is something worth envying. They were the best of friends who were always there for one another. You can't help but laugh at all the ridiculous antics of the best friends Cory and Shawn, or realize that love doesn't really exist like it did between Cory and Topanga. I'm quite certain as a teen my friends and all had to come to terms with the fact that our standard for love was unattainable. Love like Cory and Topanga's just didn't exist outside the realm of television magic. 

2. Feeeeeeeeny- Who didn't want Mr. Feeny to be their teacher? I mean really. The man was amazing and he was always there. Middle school, high school, college, the man followed them everywhere. Though that might sound a little creepy, it was really very sweet. And besides, who didn't want to be able to do the Feeny call? 

3. Wholesome - The show was all about family values. It wasn't in your face like on 7th Heaven or Full House either. It wasn't cheesy or sappy. It was honest and real, but it was a show that the family could watch together. There was no overt sexuality, swearing, or drug use. Though at times the topics of drugs, alcohol, and sex were brought up, it was in a responsible and purposeful matter. For example, the subject of sex was typically brought up in reference to Cory and Topanga not having it. And when they finally did go the distance, they were married! Not to sound like a prude, I'm certainly not, but it's nice to watch a show that has values and sticks to them. 

4. HILARIOUS- Now this might just be me, but I seriously find the show hilarious. I was watching an episode last night and laughing out loud. One of my all time favorite episodes involves older brother Eric as hermit Plays with Squirrels. In fact, Eric might just be my favorite character. 

5. Great One Liners- Underpants. Enough said. 

With so many amazing attributes to such a great show, its really too bad it's almost impossible to catch on reruns. I'm so glad it's finally been released to DVD. It took far, far too long.