A Good Ol' Time!

I was not born in the '70s when this show first started, but I do remember my mother showing me the first 3 episodes of the first season. I was immediately hooked. 

Despite evictions, gang activity, financial problems, lack of food, and muggings being frequent themes in this television series, the family remained optimistic throughout their hard times. This show made me really appreciate the importance of family, much like "The Cosby Show," and "The Jeffersons."

Florida's husband, James, was always looking for a job. The ever so "DYNOMITE!" son JJ was my favorite. Thelma was always the stylish '70s foxy vixen, and Michael was just always in between. 

This show also highlighted Florida and James' great parenting skills, even though they resided in an urban slum. They never shirked on their responsibility to teach their children right from wrong. I remembered being in awe when I realized how smart the younger son Michael was. He was so into African- American culture, and was very big on civil rights. There was even an episode where Michael took the initiative to participate in protest marches for different causes.

Whether your black, white, brown, or green, I'm sure you remember this theme song.