Life Lessons Told By One Tree Hill
If you know me, you know my absolute favorite show of all time is “One Tree Hill.” Yes, Chad Michael Murray is a part of that favoritism, but the lessons you learn are incredible.
“One Tree Hill” might be labeled as a normal early 2000s teen drama, but it’s so much more. Long story short, it’s about a group of teens in a town called Tree Hill, North Carolina, just trying to figure out life. Tree Hill High School is the main hub for the first four seasons, but let me tell you, it’s anything but boring.
Surprisingly, all of the high-school struggles and plot lines are extremely accurate and relatable in the best way possible. From awful family situations to fear of the future, this show covers it all.
Not only do you see the characters grow through high school, you’ll see your favorites experience adulthood. Not to spoil anything, but yes, you do get to meet some of their kids.
I decided to rewatch the series during quarantine, and I fell in love with the characters all over again.
So, in memory of my favorite Tree Hill Ravens, here are some of the best, snack-sized life lessons from the show.
“It’s the oldest story in the world. One day, you’re 17 and planning for someday. And then quietly, without you ever noticing, someday is today, and that someday is yesterday and this is your life.”
Just like it sounds in the quote, one of the main characters is looking back on his life realized how fast it’s passed him by. He graduated from Tree Hill, managed to play professional basketball, and then watch his son step on the same court he did in high school This quote and specific scene stuck with me. Not only is it speaking truth to high school seniors, but this is for any stage of life. Live in the moment because life passes you by whether you’re ready or not.
“Love is a wonderful thing, and it doesn’t knock much, so when it does, make sure to open the door.”
Well said, Brooke Davis, well said. Vulnerability is a terrifying thing, but when it’s right, your entire perspective changes. She reminds me of myself in so many ways. Does that make her my favorite character? Absolutely.
She’s terrified of vulnerability. Being true to who you are and others wasn’t in her forte. Her family was wealthy, but incredibly distant. She never had any chance to be vulnerable in a healthy way. This quote is a main point in her plot line as she tries to love herself and let others in.
“It’s hard missing someone, but if you miss someone that means you’re lucky. It means you had someone special in your life, someone worth missing”
This was said by the ever-so-wise Nathan Scott. Not only is he a total heartthrob, he faces many challenges. Don’t worry, no spoilers will be given in this article.
Long story short, losing someone (physically or mentally) can be unbearable. While they aren’t physically there, the memories and positive experiences will always be with you.
“There’s no shame in being afraid. Hell, we’re all afraid. What you got to do is figure out what you’re afraid of because when you put a face on It, you can beat it. Better yet, you can use it.”
Nothing but truth. Facing your fears is a process, but if you pin-point exactly what it is, you can figure out how to overcome it.
“You can choose to blame your circumstances on fate or bad luck or bad choices. Or you can fight back. Things aren’t always going to be fair in the real world. That’s just the way it is. But for the most part, you get what you give. The rest of your life is being shaped right now with the dreams you chase, the choices you make, and the person you decide to be. The rest of your life is a long time, and the rest of your life starts right now.”
Again, live in the now! You’re being shaped into the person you were meant to be. Don’t forget to indulge in your passions, choose your dream school, and build relationships. Listen to Haley James and shape yourself into the person you want to be.
“Happiness is not a destination. It is a mood, not permanent. It comes and goes, and if people thought that way then maybe people would find happiness more.”
You hear it all the time: “I’m just trying to find happiness.” That’s a great thing to look for, but you have to realize it’s not a permanent feeling. Live your life with people you love and happiness will follow.
Really listen to this one. For the longest time I tried so hard to be happy almost every hour of the day. Newsflash: that’s impossible. Not only do I struggle with mental illness, looking back, that just sounds incredibly tiring. Understand that you need to be okay with the highs and lows; it’s a crucial part of life.
“When you find yourself lost in the darkness and despair, remember it’s only in the black of night you see the stars.”
At your lowest, you’ll discover beautiful things about yourself: strength, compassion, self-love, and vulnerability. While it’s hard to see in the moment, those times are when you truly grow.
“So don’t be afraid to make mistakes, to stumble and fall, because most of the time, the greatest rewards come from doing the things that scare you the most.”
Fun fact: this is actually my senior quote. It’s always given me perspective on risks. Personally, I’m terrified of any leap of faith, but sometimes, it can be the best choice I can make.
It was also said by the Tree Hill Ravens’ best basketball coach: Whitey Durham. He is basically the Ghandi of the entire show, and I’m not exaggerating. You’ll get it when you watch it.
If you aren’t wiser after reading these quotes, you’re lying. This is only a small snippet of the show, and I urge you to watch this series. Life is tricky, but remember you got this. “One Tree Hill” and I are cheering you on.
Sincerely, Abbey
Photography: Abbey C.