change
Since the very first episode, I’ve been captivated by Grey’s Anatomy. Not so much because of McDreamy, the interactions of the characters, the crazy medical stuff—although that all definitely adds to it.
The reason I’m hooked? Meredith’s opening and closing monologues.
Seriously, some of the most brilliant writing. Brilliant because it’s honest and gut-wrenching. Because it so often resonates with my own heart, down somewhere deep inside. Because she finds a way to find words for things I feel, but cannot say.
So, say what you will about the show, but this—this right here—is undeniably powerful:
“Every cell in the human body regenerates, on average, every seven years. LIke snakes, in our own way, we shed our skin. Biologically, we’re brand new people. We may look the same—we probably do. The change isn’t visible—at least not in most of us—but we’re all changed. Completely. Forever.
When we say things like ‘people don’t change,’ it drives scientists crazy. Because change is literally the only constant in all of science. Energy… Matter… It’s always changing. Morphing. Merging. Growing. Dying.
It’s the way people try not to change that’s unnatural. The way we cling to what things were instead of letting them be what they are. The way we cling to old memories instead of forming new ones. The way we insist on believing, despite every scientific indication, that anything in this lifetime is permanent.
Change is constant. How we experience change… that’s up to us. It can feel like death. Or it can feel like a second chance at life. If we open our fingers… loosen our grips… go with it… it can feel like pure adrenaline. Like at any moment, we can have another chance at life. Like at any moment, we can be born all over again.”
(from season 7, episode 1)
mmmm, I agree. With all of it. Hers and yours.
So sad I stopped watching that show! I need all the seasons on DVD. When we moved here (2.5 years ago!) I stopped watching regularly. Wasn’t on at a convenient time anymore. ha!
what a great way to look at the change that takes place whether we want it to or not.
@Melissa_Rae says:
I’ve never watched Grey’s. But that quote makes me want to. Such good writing! I love that thought of a new beginning every 7 years. Like the year of jubilee in the Old Testament.
Love this show! Love the monologues! Love, Love, Love… :)
I’ve been addicted to Grey’s for all these years for exactly the same reason. Over and over again in those opening and closing monologues, I’ve heard Jesus speaking to me (and was pretty sure I was crazy, given the content that so often comes in between!).
And this quote about change? I just sent it in an email to a small group of people who have agreed to come around me and support me in prayer as I take some steps towards healing. because it’s powerful writing, and it said what I didn’t have words for – that even though I sometimes hate the changes that have happened in my life these last years, I’m longing for change too, and for rebirth.
@atangie says:
Wow. That is amazing.
Looks like I have a new series to be watching.
so funny. . .that same beginning and ending monologue stopped me in my tracks last week. i even rewatched a few times on the DVR. . .
l o v e you friend . . .
@moxiemandie says:
I loved that monologue. You’re right- I’ve never really thought about it, but her monologues really are inspiring & compelling. :) And I just thought I watched for the good acting. ;) I remember watching last week & really hear & understanding what she said. SUCH good stuff.
Yep! You’re reading my mind again!
Have only seen the show a few times but I’m a big fan of the speaking her thoughts. Carrie on sex and the city does this and sometimes there is so much truth in what they say that it hits home. I think that just means the writing staff is really good ;-) and it makes for a good show.
That certainly explains why I miss my dog, Sam, so much: I got a brand new puppy every year.
@bahava says:
i used to watch grey’s ALL the time and i too loved her monologues. i haven’t watched in a long time…but goodness, that quote is good. sure makes me think about what things i’m clinging to and yet so excited about all the change that is coming. though, i’ve always thought it interesting how we change so much….and yet god is the same yesterday, today, and forever…..
@mandythompson says:
I got sucked into Grey’s for the very same reason…. But it turned into a soap opera and I don’t really go for all that, so we stopped watching. I wish a less-scandalous show existed with that type of monologue. They were inspiring
@traceepersiko says:
I like seeing you see. I love watching which parts you like, get welly at, laugh, or cringe. Makes me smile. Not too mention when your face lights up over a new grey’s song.
I feel like i’m still in the hall, waiting to get cleared for surgery.
Love seeing this is writing. It is beautiful. It struck me when I heard it but now that I’ve read it I can’t get it out of my head. They should do something with this monologues…
Wow. Yep. Resonates with me too.
I love this and I agree with you about Meredith’s opening and closing monologues. Just like how Criminal Minds ends with a quote, a pretty serious one, I might add.
The monologues and quotes capture my attention and make me think!
Thanks for sharing your insight on this!
Nichole
I’ve stopped watching Grey’s (as of last fall, in case you’re wanting details), but I still love Grey’s monologues. I actually posted about a Christina speech at the very beginning of last season. It was So Good – and So Me.
Yes, that is a good one. Change is the only thing that is constant, so true. It is funny, I used to welcome change and now I find myself bucking it more and more…it must be an age thing. :)