There is Hope in Reality Television.

So, I just caught up on all my “Kid Nation” episodes, and I am completely fulfilled. I never thought that I would watch this entire series, but the concept did intrigue me. I mean throw 40 kids on their own (granted the guiding of a few producers and surrounded by cameramen) for 40 days in the desert, you’ve got me at least watching one episode. I watched it admittedly hoping for a little “Lord of the Flies” action, but ended up getting much more. As I began expecting heads to end up on poles with rocks being dropped on each other, I was rocked by the near possibility of tears instead. Every episode worked to make it the most comforting and inspiring television show I have ever seen. Every episode left me feeling goosebumps, and excited for each of its participants.

Not only did most of the children visibly grow through the process, but the amazing future possibilities within each child shined. The comforting shoulder of Laurel could always be guaranteed, the intelligence and genius capabilities of Alex and Jared never failed to exceed that of most adults I know, while the responsibility and diplomatic nature of Zach embodied that of a seasoned politician surpassing what I find possible of our own Commander in Chief. The kids each began to truly trust one another, and understand what their role should be. Through 40 days many found potential within themselves, that they never dreamed possible. Potential which many adults never see within themselves, as they avoid the challenges which would lead them to their true being.

I have not watched much television recently, but had to catch up on this program. I found it to be the only show to truly make me feel and care. As this writer’s strike continues and reality shows are going to become the norm for a while again, I hope they at least have a couple shows that strive to go beyond the dating/freak/jackass mentality. Lives were seriously changed by this show, and it succeeded without ever eliminating anyone while instead finishing shows with acts of encouragement rather than defilement. Not always does one have to suffer humiliation, or sell themselves out to be entertaining to a mass audience. Most of our days are filled with enough rejection and struggle to the point where I believe we need shows like this. Every time a child won the money through the presentation of a Gold Star it was not the money that was important, it was just the honor and acceptance of their being. Each child continuously strived to get the best out of each other, and saw each challenge as a possibility to learn.

I accept the necessity of television as a means of universal entertainment, but I offer this show as a challenge on the belief that people don’t want feel good television. I admit that I would not want everything to be this touchy on my sensitive side, but at least some joyous tearjerkers are acceptable in my book. I may have to watch it on my own to not feel like a wuss, but hey there ain’t no way I am missing it.

-B