If you’re anything like me, you too are struggling to /ind things that help you feel calm and happy. The world is really getting to me lately, so I’ve been looking for podcasts, music, TV shows, and movies that distract me but leave me feeling happier. Beloved listens to the Daily Beans podcast, and it was on while we were in the car together headed to my dad in Westchester last Tuesday. If you don’t know the Daily Beans, it’s a pair of besties who deliver the news in as mild a way as possible, but also take time out to offer happier things as well. One of them was talking about a recommendation she had from a listener who reminded her about Love on the Spectrum. If you haven’t watched it, it’s a gentle, lovely reality show about people on the Autism spectrum looking for a partner. It can be a little chaotic, as you could imagine, but honestly, these are the sweetest people, and I end up rooting for all of them. It also gave me a fuller understanding of what they’re up against and how to communicate with them. It’s also a wonderful look at their (very understanding) families and what amazing cheerleaders they all are. Truly heartwarming stuff.

I watched the first couple of seasons a few years ago, but after the suggestion, I gave them a rewatch and was then rewarded with the most recent season 4 which brings back some of the favorites from previous seasons. These are lovely people, all deserving of love. I adore it all but the kissing. When these darlings kiss, it looks like some of the most cringey, awkward, unpleasant face pressing I’ve ever seen. I actually cover my eyes with my hands when I feel it coming on.

Kissing aside, I strongly recommend you give it a watch. I really did feel my blood pressure coming down and my heart swelling with fondness for these dear people. If they can keep on keeping on, so can I.

You can watch Love on the Spectrum on Netflix, and if you hunt around a bit, you can also find them on YouTube. And thanks to me writing this post, I just learned there is a whole other series produced in Australia!!! I know what I’m doing tonight…