Goodbye, Bravermans. Thanks for the memories.

Disclaimer: I'm actually not watching the final episode of Parenthood tonight. I really want to, but we're one episode behind and I have to watch the final ones in order. No spoilers please.

But I do want to say thank you to the Braverman family. Part of me thinks it's silly to feel like a TV show (c'mon it is a television show) has been there for me. The real-life issues they tackle with raw emotion episode after episode reeled me in. I'm pretty sure I cried in every episode this season.

source

The topics of real life over the six seasons-- cancer, adoption, Asperger's, a sick parent, pregnancy, job loss, marital strife-- are honest. There is no doubt family dynamics can be hard. But the Bravermans express reconciliation to one another over and over again.  After watching a season (or maybe less), who doesn't want to be a Braverman?

At the least, the Braverman clan has taught us to appreciate our parents. If they're still living, call them and say thank you for raising you. It was hard work. If you can't make that call, know that you are not alone. You're in good company when you shed tears watching an episode and missing your mom (or dad).

The Bravermans taught us to forgive our siblings. No matter what your relationship is with your brother or sister, you share a unique bond with them.

The Bravermans make us consider how we parent and love our kids. They don't tell us how to do it, but they show us how hard it is day after day.

The Bravermans taught us so much and I could go on and on. But it's getting late and I want to say thank you, Ron Howard (and the other producers). I'm going to miss the Braverman clan, but I have my own little family and I can't wait to see how where the next forty years (and more) take us!