KEEP THE PEACE, Part I

Jan 16, 2013 | 5 comments

It happened. I didn’t want it to. Many of us saw the writing on the Wall. We knew this day would come. And yet, we’re still unprepared.

My beloved TV Show, FLASHPOINT, has begun to end.

Tonight was Part I of the two-part series finale. Yes. That’s right. Series finale. It won’t be back after next week.

FPTO Keep The Peace

[Courtesy Angelo Barovier/FLASHPOINT Team One, Used By Permission]

In keeping with strict Team One rules, I refuse to discuss the episode itself (“NO SPOILERS!”) other than to say, Mark and Stephanie, co-creators and head writers, out-did themselves. And this is just Part I. I’ve no idea what to expect for next week.

I’m in shambles. The show, as always, leaves me with a “what-the-heck-just-happened-I-need-to-learn-to-breathe-again” experience. It literally takes my breath away, and I’m consciously surprised during commercials when I find myself exhaling.

It’s impossible for me to write about FLASHPOINT without making it personal. I had absolutely nothing to do with the show. I wasn’t even one of the Lucky Ones to visit the set, cast and crew in Toronto. I’m okay with that (not really, but, you know, what can ya do…) Even so, this is a deeply personal experience for me.

As melodramatic as it reads, this show has, in some ways, changed my life. “But it’s just a TV show!” you say. “Get a life!” you tell me.

Let me tell you… in the five seasons that FLASHPOINT has been on the air:

*I became a licensed insurance agent.
*I went through two periods of unemployment. The last one lasting nearly 18 months.
*I bought a house.
*I was in a car accident.
*I reconnected with childhood friends via Facebook.
*I published my Cookbook.
*I learned to trust people I’ve never met.
*I found courage. Courage to reach for goals. Courage to think about change instead of comfort. Courage to let strangers in and let go of being intimidated.

And because of FLASHPOINT, I have many new friends. I’ve met people I otherwise would not have the privilege to know. People who have influenced me, tolerated me, cheered me on, and lifted me up.

FLASHPOINT opened up my world to possibilities. The highly interactive Facebook Page has been instrumental in making me feel connected to a world I otherwise didn’t know: the fan-based community that introduced me to others who understand: this is so much more than “just” a TV show. The producers that personally chat with me. Me. Like I’m a Somebody. Holy Reality, Batman… did Sharon just message me? Really?! Really!

When I needed a break from the Outside World, I could escape by watching FLASHPOINT on TV, on the DVR or one of the DVD sets. I always knew Team One would KEEP THE PEACE and make it better.

For my long-time readers, you’ll remember nearly three years ago when I began to really get involved with the FTPO Community online. Facebook. Twitter. I was so easily intimidated. I fluctuated between opening up and protecting my privacy. I soon realized the Community I was diving into was one of honest friendship. And it’s based on so much more than a show.

This group has supported my writing. Seen me through tragedies and celebrations. Encouraged me, and even called me on the carpet when I needed it.

I count my FPTO peeps as some of the most reliable people I know. And I’m thrilled to know that even though the show is ending, the Community is not.

So yes. When I talk about FLASHPOINT, it’s personal. And when it ends, I take it personally.

Dear FPTO,
You’ll never really know how you’ve inspired me and, cheesily, changed my life.
I wouldn’t trade it for all the chocolate in the world.
Sincerely,
Me

And Frankly, My Dear… that’s all she wrote!

You may also enjoy reading:
Hello/Goodbye: How Flashpoint Keeps Hitting the Mark
Do You Know FPTO?
The Long Goodbye: Flashpoint to End After Season Five
The Long Goodbye: What FLASHPOINT Means to Me
#FlashpointFinalDays

January Meal Plan Recipe: Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
January Meal Plan Recap and Setbacks: Week 2
Sweeten my tea and share:

5 Comments

  2. Sharon
    Sharon on January 16, 2013 at 7:42 pm

    You have been a cherished part of our family. Really! Sharon Mustos

    • Molly Jo
      Molly Jo on January 16, 2013 at 7:54 pm

      Dear Sharon,
      Stop making me cry. I mean that in a good way!
      Thank you for everything. The poster. The script. The DVDs. The emails. The community. Everything.
      And thanks for keeping in touch even after it’s over.
      Sincerely,
      Me =)
      Molly Jo recently posted..January Meal Plan Recipe: Slow Cooker Turkey ChiliMy Profile

  3. William
    William on January 19, 2013 at 8:59 am

    I’ve never watched that show, but I can see it means a lot to you!