Thank goodness for “Nick at Nite” and other TV reruns. Otherwise, many of you would have no clue about I Love Lucy and other pioneer sitcoms.
You might ask what such programs have to do with life as we know it today? – That is a good question, and here’s what I trust to be a good answer...
Such programs provide us with dramatic illustrations of what we can only rarely do in real life, and that is to solve problems in half-an-hour (including commercials!) These programs show us the unrealistic (albeit fun) simplicity of dealing very quickly with life’s irritations and disappointments.
Problem is there are many people who, at least subconsciously, have that same quick fix expectation. This causes problems when these expectations are not met. Impatience then leads to frustration, which in turn can lead to unfortunate behavior choices…and all because we think Ricky Ethyl and Fred could have solved this in 15 minutes.
The expectation of quick fixes also leads us to problem-solution choices that are doomed to failure because of their superficial, short-term nature.
My recommendation is that we enjoy these vintage TV programs as the fantasy they have always been. But when it comes to effective problem-resolution we should turnoff the TV, and tune into problem solving with time-tested strategies that bring lasting resolution. |
