In today’s world, almost anything out of the ordinary embarrasses us. Why do we care so much?
Rachel invites Phoebe to go running in the park with her as a “roommate bonding” activity. They get to the park and Phoebe gives Rachel a head start but when Phoebe passes by flailing her arms and legs spread far apart, Rachel can’t help but pretend she has no idea who Phoebe is. Rachel tells Ross and Monica about the strange running and asks their advice on how to get out of running with Phoebe again. Monica suggests just telling the truth and Rachel agrees until Phoebe walks in. Rachel instantly lies saying that Monica tripped her and now she won’t be able to run. Phoebe is really bummed and blames Monica who just goes along with the lie. The next day Rachel sneaks out for her run and is surprised by Phoebe who caught her at the park. She accuses Rachel of lying so she could run by herself. Rachel tries to make up an excuse but Phoebe isn’t buying it and ‘runs’ away. When Phoebe comes home Rachel apologizes for lying. Phoebe asks for the truth and Rachel admits that the way Phoebe runs embarrasses her and people stare. Phoebe asks why she cares about the people and Rachel says “because they’re people!” Phoebe doesn’t understand why she cares so much when she’ll never see them again. Phoebe explains to Rachel that she runs the way she did when she was a kid because it’s the only way to make it fun. The next time Rachel goes on a run she tries running like Phoebe and realizes that it really is fun and freeing!
Embarrassment seems to be a very common feeling among people today. Often times, we aren’t only embarrassed of ourselves but we’re embarrassed by our friends and family. Whenever my friends start creating a ruckus, I can’t help but look over my shoulder and see if anyone is watching. I suppose I’m afraid that people will judge me for being friends with such “obnoxious” or “annoying” people if that’s how they see it. But why do I, and Rachel, care so much about what strangers think? I think it comes from our self-conscious culture. We all want to fit a description and we’re conscious of our actions and appearance in public. We don’t want anyone to see behind the mask in fear of rejection. But why hide our differences? We should embrace them. Like Phoebe, we’ll find a new sense of freedom if we are true to ourselves. What matters is that we accept ourselves, not the acceptance from others. I ask you to try running like Phoebe, or do whatever you’re embarrassed to do, and see what it feels like… you might be surprised.