Here’s the latest dispatch from the crossroads of faith and media:

Theories for getting through life. After 12 seasons (and 279 episodes) The Big Bang Theory is soon departing the CBS schedule for syndication heaven (where it has already been enjoying success for some time now).  It somehow seems appropriate that a series with a title inspired by a concept articulated by a Catholic priest would turn out to be something of a parable about the relationship between science, faith and eternal values. A brilliant series.

Thankfully for fans (like me), the Big Bang universe continues through its equally brilliant prequel series Young Sheldon. Popular culture, at its most purposeful, offers actual wisdom as it entertains – and both shows have proven quite adept as mixing in some awesome insights into genuinely funny and, at times, touching parables. Here’s some of my favorite examples from both shows.

1. “Sometimes it’s the imperfect stuff that makes things perfect.” Don’t allow oppressive perfectionism prevent you from seeing all that is good and blessed in yourself and others.

2. You may have lost a season or two but the game of life isn’t over. Don’t beat yourself up. Learn from your mistakes and move on.

3. All of us struggle – and our struggles are often more alike than we realize.

4. The world is in God’s compassionate hands. It may not always be clear  but, without us worrying about it, the universe is unfolding as it should.

5. Be yourself. It’s good enough for God so it should be good enough for you.

No available clip here but here’s what Rabbi Schneiderman (John Rubenstein) told young Sheldon when he was considering becoming a Jew so he could be more like his hero Albert Einstein.

“Sheldon, when your days are over, God will never ask you,'”Why weren’t you Einstein?’ But he might ask you, ‘Why weren’t you Sheldon?'”

6. There is freeing power in forgiveness – including self-forgiveness.

7. Hold onto your dreams – even when it’s hard. And encourage others to do the same.

8. Cherish your positive relationships. Show appreciation to those who have encouraged, sustained, inspired and tolerated through the good and the tough times.

9. Persevere. Outlast the tough and lonely times. Things will get better. No matter your religion, or lack of it, God is on your side. 

10. Savor the moments. In all the billions of years of creation, this is your moment in time to learn how to just be. Eternal life begins now. Take no undue burdens upon yourself. Let go worry. Eat. Laugh. Love. Have fun.

Encourage one another and build each other up – 1 Thessalonians 5:11