Back in 2015, I first got Netflix. I started browsing around trying to find something fun and uplifting to watch; I didn’t know it then but my depression was at the starting point of relapsing. While I was searching around, I found Glee (and what eventually would be a saving grace).

My husband and I watched the entire series over the course of several days. There were many late nights of seeing “what happened next” and becoming fascinated with the storylines. Then it ended and it would take a bit before I would indulge the pleasure of the show choir.

The following year my depression really hit and it hit hard. I switched jobs and eventually left the field of Crime Analysis altogether. When then happened I rediscovered Glee. I had enjoyed it before but never really understood its power. Then I sat on my couch alone in my doldrums (such a Kurt word) and hit play. Even though it is just a show, a group of actors and singers playing characters, I found a place that made me feel good. I started learning about acceptance; not just acceptance of other people but also acceptance of myself. The show really helped me realize a lot about myself and made me feel accepted.

Over the years I have made some online friends who share the same love for Glee. Meeting those people (even though it’s through a computer screen) has given me a great gift as it has provided me a safe corner of the world to be myself.