Beyond the Glitter: Five Valuable Lessons From RuPaul's Drag Race ✨
Happy Pride Month! 👑 🌈
During a global pandemic that left many of us isolated and uncertain, one television show emerged as a source of joy and inspiration for me and my partner: RuPaul's Drag Race. For us, it wasn't just a show; it became a lifeline—a source of laughter, creativity, and profound life lessons. And oh, how we laughed!
When he introduced me to the series, I watched with mild interest. Little did I know it would soon result in a subscription to Wow Presents Plus and years of watching one episode a night. It offered us a much-needed escape from the anxiety of lockdown life. What began as casual viewing quickly became a deep appreciation for the artistry, resilience, and community fostered within the Drag Race universe.
As we celebrate Pride Month, I thought of no better way to express my love and admiration for the drag race queens than by dedicating this post to them.
So, here are some valuable lessons I learned from watching the series.
#1 Confidence is king... or should I say queen?
One of the takeaways I got was the importance of confidence. Watching queens from different backgrounds and experiences navigate the fierce competition taught me that confidence isn't just about outward appearances but a deep, unwavering belief in oneself. Whether they started the season with boundless self-assurance or grew into it, each queen's journey showed the transformative power of embracing who you are unapologetically. In short, don’t let your inner saboteur, as RuPaul calls it, steal your sparkle!
#2 Kindness & community matter
Beyond the glitz and glamor of the runway, another theme emerged: kindness. While the queens can get a bit spicy with each other, what is consistent with them is their support and empathy for each other. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve ugly-cried listening to their stories. They uplifted each other, offered shoulders to cry on, and celebrated each other's victories. It was refreshing to see that kindness is not a weakness but a strength that can elevate everyone involved.
#3 Be bold. Be real. Be authentic
Drag is an art form that thrives on creativity and self-expression. Each queen brought a unique story and perspective to the runway, boldly showcasing their vulnerabilities and strengths unapologetically. Despite societal pressures and personal challenges, their courage to be real touched me. It taught me that true artistry lies in embracing your truth and sharing it boldly with the world.
#4 Love wins
Beyond the sequins and lip-sync battles, Drag Race is also about love in action. The queens' passion for their craft, community, and each other was palpable. It elevated the competition, serving as a reminder of the power of love to create change and build bridges. Their commitment to advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility inspired me to find ways to be an ally.
#5 Laughter is medicine.
Perhaps the biggest lesson from RuPaul's Drag Race is embracing joy and humor. In the face of criticism, setbacks, and personal struggles, the queens never lose sight of the fun and frivolity that drag embodies. When the queens take themselves too seriously, RuPaul always reminds them they’re there to have fun! Their ability to find happiness and laughter in challenging times reminded me we must have room for playfulness and delight amidst life's hardships.
Tap into your inner queen
Whether you're a longtime fan of the show or new to its sparkly and glamorous world, take a moment to tap into your inner queen or king. Embrace who you are, support those around you, and find ways to spread positivity and acceptance.
In a world that can often feel divided and uncertain, the queens of RuPaul's Drag Race remind me of the power of diversity, resilience, and the transformative potential of embracing our true selves. I honor them by taking up space, using my voice, uplifting others as best I can, and loving fiercely.
So, if you haven't yet experienced the magic of RuPaul's Drag Race, I encourage you to dive in. Allow yourself to be dazzled by the glamor, moved by the stories, and inspired by the strength and creativity of the queens who grace the runway. After all, in the words of RuPaul himself, "If you can't love yourself, how in the hell you are you gonna love somebody else?”
Can I get an amen? 🤩
