Parks and Recreation is brimming with some of the best scenes in TV history that continue to leave their mark long after the series has ended. (Thank God it holds up and will likely continue to!) But one moment in particular has always stood out to me, and it’s what I consider Ron Swanson’s best piece of advice. In Season 4, Episode 16, “Sweet Sixteen,” Ron tells Leslie, “Never half a$$ two things; whole a$$ one thing.“

I think about this piece of advice almost all the time, but especially during the moments when burnout hits the hardest. When you can’t keep your eyes open anymore, and it feels like every word out of your mouth is gibberish because you’re juggling too much. (Would Ron be proud that instead of taking my mental health walks to decompress, I’m on my phone writing this scene breakdown in Google Docs? Probably not, but I don’t have a choice.) There’s a great deal of wisdom in his advice, and part of the reason why it hits is because it doesn’t happen in an office space—nature makes the moment more vulnerable and more sincere. Much of what transpires here is something that I wish the world could see the significance of.

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Portrayed by: Amy Poehler Show: NBC’s Parks and Recreation

This is one of those deep dives I’ve held off on for the longest time because every time I sit down to write it, I don’t even know where to begin. It especially feels weird now because while I live by a very specific “be the Leslie Knope of whatever you do” motto, the truth is, I haven’t been that version of me in what feels like forever now. I used to pride myself on being the best gift giver and using my creativity in almost every area possible, this year and last, I’ve given almost everyone I know gift cards or money for their birthdays. I haven’t been creative in the ways that I used to be.

But I suppose I’ve written. I’ve still used my excitement in other ways, and I should be proud of that. It’s what Leslie would want, isn’t it? For us to use what we’re good at it in some way even when it’s hard.

Leslie Knope is one of those characters who matters to everyone for different reasons because she’s so multifaceted and complex, it’s easy to find something relatable in her. She is far, far from perfect, but she’s unapologetically herself and that’s why I’ve always connected with her.

I don’t shy away from vocalizing my excitement because Leslie never shied away from vocalizing hers. She let herself find joy in whatever it is that brought her happiness, and she was always incredibly vocal about it even when people didn’t reciprocate that excitement or looked at her with hesitations. If all politicians were actually as Leslie tried to tirelessly be then damn, we’d actually live in a pretty fantastic world. The world wouldn’t be dark and terrifying, it’d be hopeful and exciting even amidst darkness.

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Type: Romantic Show: NBC’s Parks and Recreation Featured Characters: Leslie Knope and Ben Wyatt

Parks and Recreation quickly became one of my favorite shows because of how unapologetically feminist it is. And the most glorious element of the series isn’t just how much the ladies appreciate one another, but how the men are fully aware of the fact that the women they are surrounded by are their equals.

Ben Wyatt not only loves Leslie Knope for all that she is, but he is completely and fervently supportive of her dreams and that alone is indescribably remarkable. Ben and Leslie’s relationship reminds viewers that sometimes, the biggest risks give us the greatest outcomes in life. Their love also serves as a pivotal reminder that it’s key to wait for someone who’ll not only grow wildflowers in your heart, but to wait for someone who’ll never once question your dreams and aspirations.

Interestingly, on my list of favorite couples, it is often the female that finds “home” due to their hearts finally feeling safe with someone; however, with Parks and Recreation, it’s Ben Wyatt who finally finds a home with Leslie Knope. It’s Ben Wyatt who comes to the realization that a small, ridiculous town can be the greatest place in the world because it’s what led him to the most incredible woman he’s ever known. And it’s extraordinary for a woman with such enormous dreams to find a man who’ll go above and beyond to help her in every way possible. Leslie and Ben build a solid foundation on honesty and bravery—a gorgeous love wrapped beautifully with a childlike spectacle.

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Parks and Recreation portrays friendships in a way that is truly impeccably rare on television. Leslie Knope and Ann Perkins alone are the epitome of how women should be with their best friends. And while they would be enough if they were the only ones, the entire department is magic together. In what may be the most difficult of choices I have made in my writing career, I have attempted to culminate seven of my favorite moments, which showcase friendship on this series at its absolute finest. The moments that were unbelievably difficult to choose but manage to bring characters together in ways that are beautifully refreshing.

It’s not easy to write about Parks and Recreation because it is the comedy show of dreams that has reached an unparalleled level of perfection and years later, I still compare so much to it. It is the show where people are celebrated because of who they are and teamwork is valued above all. And if that is not perfect then I do not know what is. (There is a current show on air that might come close, but since it is only its first season, we cannot say just yet. Still, Parks and Recreation reigns.)

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There’s an unusual idea has been making its way around that’s set on the belief that love in the media is weakness. And perhaps, in the real world though I’ve been fortunate enough never to witness this. You’d think Once Upon A Time’s late Cora Mills is in position of their hearts or something. But there’s no theory or idea that’s more laughable, and I say that with the utmost respect. There are a number of opinions that differ from mine that I could respect, turn the other cheek, and agree to disagree on, but when said idea is damaging and leads to young women believing that strength is coldness and isolation, I draw the line. There’s great bravery in honesty and it takes more courage to be vulnerable than it does to build a wall. It takes more courage to understand and explore our feelings than it does to shut them off. It takes strength to fall into the great unknown with a partner that we’re willing to share our entire lives with.

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International Women's Day '15

Inspiring Female Character III:  Leslie Knope (Parks and Recreation) | Amy Poehler

Leslie Knope teaches the world that it’s okay to be excited over little things even if people don’t understand you. I get excited over the smallest details and for a while, I believed it was pathetic, like I needed to remain a certain way so people would take me seriously. And this bold, courageous woman taught me to never be ashamed of being eccentric; being loving and sensitive is beautiful — being different is beautiful. She teaches the importance of self love in the most inimitable way. Leslie Knope is the paradigm of a dreamer -- a woman whose entire arc was about rising above the norms and fighting to succeed. It's easy to love her because it's easy to understand her. We all have dreams in our hearts we've been desiring since we were little girls and when life gets difficult, it's easy to let go of them. But Leslie Knope reminds us that it's okay if it takes a while. It's okay if it doesn't work out exactly as you pictured it because if you continue fighting, you'll make it. 

By being compassionate, enthusiastic, supportive, and generous, Leslie Knope teaches women how to be friends. She teaches the importance of selflessness through her unwavering empathy and adoration.

Inspiring Novel Written by a Female:  Yes Please by Amy Poehler

The moment you choose to pick this book up, people will have to snatch it out of your hands because it's that great. Amy Poehler's remarkable honesty and exquisite humor inspire impeccably. With numerous excellent quotes that women can carry with them in their lives, Poehler validates that she's truly a gift in this industry. Much like Leslie Knope, Poehler showcases the importance of fighting for our dreams by discussing her journey into the industry. And it wasn't always sunny, but surely in the end it's worth it. What Yes Please did the most excellent job of authenticating is the fact that it's okay not to always have it together -- we are all beautifully flawed and we shouldn't have to fake emotions. It's okay if something isn't going isn't our way as long as we don't give up. Poehler tackles numerous issues we all have face in her novel and it's guaranteed to serve as a memorable inspiration for all. 

Parks and Recreation 7x12-13 "One Last Ride" Recap

Spoilers Ahead

I am ready to conquer many things, but I am not ready to say goodbye to Pawnee.

Episode Summary:  In order for their last day to be the greatest, Leslie convinces the team that they should help fix a broken swing. Thisgives the group time to reflect on their experiences together and fortify their friendships even further. In 2025, the group reunites in Pawnee once more and this time, they’re staying.

Review: I loved this episode so much more than I can say. And if I’m being completely honest, I don’t know where to begin or end. The last time I’ve reviewed aseries finale was The Office and all I can remember is there were lots of tears. The thing with Parks and Recreation is that it did the most superlative job of inspiring its viewers to follow their dreams. It was cheesy, it dealt with clichés, it was hysterical, and it was brilliant. Here’s the thing, life is tough for all of us. It takes a while for our dreams to come true, it takes a while to find good friends, love, and it takes a while for us to learn how to love ourselves. And in the midst of all the difficulties we all face, we need the clichés to remind us that at some point life can be unbelievably, unexplainably, and immaculately perfect. Parks and Recreation is a series that focused heavily on the little things -- it reminded its viewers that there’s beauty in hard work, there’s wonder in uncertainties, there’s power in uniqueness, and there’s strength in numbers. And that’s why I loved it so much. It’s why I have such a difficult time letting go. That said let’s begin discussing the glorious series finale. 

Parks and Recreation 7x11 "Two Funerals" Recap

Spoilers Ahead

“Two Funerals” was the kind of Parks and Recreation episode that does a fantastic job of reminding its viewers that if you have good friends, you have everything.

Episode Summary: When Pawnee’s Mayor, Walter Gunderson (Bill Murray) dies, it’s up to Ben to find his replacement. Leslie helps Tom come up with a beautiful way to propose to Lucy. Ron’s barber Salvatore passes as well and Donne tries to help him find a new one.

Review: While moments within the episode were as glorious as anything done on Parks and Recreation, the episode unfortunately fell a bit flat after the greatness we watched in “Johnny Karate Super Awesome Musical Explosion Show”. I may be in the minority when I say this, but Jean-Ralphio and his sister aren’t characters I missed and certainly felt the episode could’ve done without. At the end of the day however, I’m so incredibly happy for Tom and I’m glad Aziz Ansari got an episode to shine again. Love is everything, and on a show like Parks and Recreation, we’re constantly reminded that it’s something everyone deserves to have and should seize the opportunity to get it whenever they can.

Parks and Recreation 7x10 "The Johnny Karate Super Awesome Musical Explosion Show" Recap

Spoilers Ahead

"Johnny Karate Super Awesome Musical Explosion Show" was indeed an awesome conclusion to Andy Dwyer's life in Pawnee. 

Episode Summary: It’sAndy’s final day on his TV series and he goes out with a bang, bringing backSpecial Agent Burt Macklin and featuring everyone from the Parks Department onhis episode. The episode focused mainly on Andy, which is a huge blessing on its own because it gave Chris Pratt the opportunity to really showcase how much Andy’s changed all while remaining the same. 

Review: Note, I’m still slightly emotional over the fact that Andy is the sweetest husband ever and April’s the most perfect wife for him. And I'm extremely emotional over the fact that the series is ending next week. That said, let’s discuss how wonderful the idea of a series finale within a series finale is because in some bizarre (but good) way, the episode reminded me of All That, and if you’re a 90s kid, you know how awesome that series was. A series within the series really delved further into the mockumentary style making it the most hilarious form they've done.

This Week's Most Exquisite TV Moment

February 8-14: "Pie-Mary" | Parks and Recreation 

Parks and Recreation 7x09 "Pie Mary" Recap

Spoilers Ahead

Pie Mary is an episode that could only be described as completely and utterly brilliant.

Episode Summary: Controversies arise when Leslie decides to skip out on a pie making contest because she doesn’t like what it stands for. Garry loses his wedding ring plus a bunch of other things, and Donna thinks it’s the most entertaining thing ever. After April tells Ron that she and Andy must move to Washington for her job in a few months, he asks for the spare key to his house back; however, because she hid it a long time ago, they all need to put their heads together to figure out where. 

Review: One of my all time favorite things about Parks and Recreation is that it never lets us forget how proud show runners and actors are to delve into feminism. They’ve always done a superlative job of validating the importance of equal rights and debunking the conception that Feminism = girls rule, boys drool. There are countless things I loved about this episode but the main entity is that it reminded its viewers of what a sublime pair Ben and Leslie are. She supports him and he supports her -- no matter who’s doing what, they’ll defend their person to the end of time all while standing their ground and letting the world know that love helps them grow as a person. Also, Ron Swanson is a complete softie and Nick Offerman’s a genius.

Parks and Recreation 7x08 "Ms. Ludgate-Dwyer Goes to Washington" Recap

Spoilers Ahead

April has finally figured out what she wants to do for the rest of her life and it's perfect for her. 

Episode Summary: Andy, Ben, and Ron continue to help April find her dream job. And during their trip in Washington, April tells Leslie she wants to leave the Parks Department. Leslie gets a promotion. 

Review: The episode did a gorgeous job of showcasing Leslie and April's relationship. Its core focus was on the two of them and the journey they've been on since they've met. Packed with outstanding performances and a fantastic script, this has quickly become one of my favorite episodes. And as always it was lovely to watch Andy's unwavering love for April brought to life in the most inimitably stunning and hilarious manner. 

Parks and Recreation 7x07 "Donna and Joe" Recap

Spoilers Ahead

Donnaand Joe’s wedding was just as sweet and fabulous as I imagined it’d be.

Episode Summary: While preparing to go to Donna’s wedding, Leslie and Ben are visited by Jen Barkley who proposes that Ben run for a position on the House of Representatives. Ron tells Lucy about Tom’s love and it causes a few problems in their relationship. April does a superb job at being Donna's Maid of Honor. And Larry, Terry, Jerry, reveals his real name.

Review: It’s honestly so great to finally see the triplets, to see that things are in fact not easy, but Leslie and Ben have never taken that route and it’s what makes their family so beautiful. In fact, while I’m surprised with Ben’s decision, I’m also so proud and intrigued with the storyline that’s about to unfold with his second chance at a form of leadership. 

Parks and Recreation 7x06 "Save JJ's" Recap

Spoilers Ahead

Thisepisode was a great way for fans of Parks and Recreation to treat themselves one last time.

Episode Summary: Whenthe group learns that Dennis Feinstein plans to shut JJ’s Diner down, they rally for it together and in the process figure out a way to get the Newport land from Gryzzl. And Gryzzl was able to attain it by offering $125 million. Andy brings out a bit more serious counterpart of his (Johnathon Karate) in order to stop Dennis Feinstein. And to honor “Treat Yo Self 2017 -- the best day of the year”, Donna and Tom finally take a trip to Beverly Hills.

Review: The best part of this week’s episode was how wonderful “Treat Yo Self 2017” was. It was the most entertaining and definitely made for an epic way to end the chapter in the series. Donna and Tom’s friendship has always been an outstanding part of the show and this week especially we were reminded of why. And in this episode, “when it comes to matters of the heart, treat your self,” became the most beautiful message stated.

Parks and Recreation 7x05 "Gryzzlbox" Recap

Spoilers Ahead

Gryzzlis a worst nightmare come to life. I’m already at times suspicious that mycomputer (an actual person behind it) knows how strange I am for rewatching my favorite scenes of a TV show a million times, so imagine if it actually did.

Episode Summary: On the last fifth episode ever, we’re once again reminded of the beautiful fact that Parks and Recreation is a show that emphasizes anything is possible. Tom becomes Andy’s agent in order to renegotiate his contract and give him the proper show life he deserves. Donna teams up with Leslie and Ben in order to take Gryzzl down for invading their privacy. April’s in charge of interviewing interns but she chooses to make a different call taking her one step further to figuring out what she wants to do with the rest of her life.

Review: The words of wisdom this week were brought to us by the ever so charmingly hilarious, Andy Dwyer: “if you want something badly, you’ve just got to believe that it’s going to work out.” Every episode of Parks and Recreation so far has made me realize why I’m going to miss this show so much. There aren’t many series, or at least ones I’m aware of which do such a fantastic job of pointing out that our destiny and our dreams are in the palm of our hands. There isn’t a show that showcases the importance of goodness prospering like Parks and Recreation and its astounding characters, and for that I’m nowhere near prepared for it to end. That said, “Gryzzl” was a delight to watch.

Parks and Recreation 7x03/04 "William Henry Harrison" + "Leslie and Ron"

Spoilers Ahead 

Full of heart, humor, and exceptional performances, tonight’s two-part episode is without a doubt one of the greatest in Parks and Recreation history. You’d have to not only be dealing with two insanely gifted actors but excellent writing to make an episode like "Leslie and Ron" work -- by the time it was over, I was left thinking it had passed by too quickly.

Episode Summary: During “William Henry Harrison” Ron and Leslie compete towards finding someone to represent their proposal for the Newport land. Leslie finds out that ninth President William Henry Harrison has a descendent named Zach Harrison while Ron reluctantly agrees to have celebrity Annabel Porter represent his company. However, learning the secret behind Morning Star and watching Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman brilliantly manifest a full range of emotions was the cherry on top in "Leslie and Ron". 

Review: I imagined that I’d get emotional over Ron and Leslie repairing their friendship, but I most certainly didn’t think I’d be a sobbing wreck. No exaggerations. If I’m being honest, I probably sat in front of my screen for a good fifteen minutes and cried. Days later and I'm still having  a difficult time coming up with the proper words to do such an episode justice. 

Parks and Recreation 7x02 "Ron and Jammy" Recap

Spoilers Ahead

"2017" was great, but "Ron and Jammy" was even better. Although much has changed, the one question I still have is how on earth does Tammy still have a job? Especially after this week's shenanigans. 

Episode Summary: When Leslie learns that Councilman Jamm has become a living copy of Ron because he's dating Tammy II, she decides a truce needs to be called in order to help break them up. April begins to worry over the fact that she isn't doing her dream job while Ben helps her find some options. Andy and Tom take a spontaneous trip to Chicago in order for Tom to see Lucy (Natalie Morales). 

Review: Megan Mullally reprised her role as the diabolical Tammy II one final time phenomenally while Amy Poehler was given the opportunity to mimic her noteworthy traits brilliantly. As frustrating as Tammy II has always been, it's been hilarious to watch their hate filled banter with one another. While it's evident that Ron and Leslie will mend their once amazing friendship, it was fantastic to watch them angrily but without hesitation join forces to take on Tammy II. And it was even more glorious than the times before.