It’s been a little quiet around here. To be honest, I’ve been struck with an overwhelming sense of grief towards someone I’ve never met. Naya Rivera’s death effected me deeply and it still does. I am in awe of her. And even more struck with the beauty of her talent that I have been consuming as long as I can remember. In her 33 years, Naya’s acting career stretched longer than my entire existence. Her roles breaking barriers and creating lasting memories for us all to enjoy. I can’t stop revisiting her roles, thinking about how one day, her son will grow up watching these exact same clips in admiration at the woman who used her last bit of strength to save his life. So, take a walk down memory lane with me and let’s explore Naya’s most memorable roles and what we can learn from them.

It Doesn’t Matter Your Age, Go For Your Dreams

Naya Rivera’s career spanning almost 30 years. One of her first roles was Gwendolyn on Family Matters. Family Matters itself is such an iconic television show, the fact that Naya landed one of her first roles on this show is so inspiring. She also starred in The Royal Family as a child.

Your Big Break is Coming

Naya was a busy actress, landing many guest spots on movies and TV shows including Baywatch, Even Stevens, Soul Food, Girlfriends and The Bernie Mac Show until she finally got a role on Glee that would put her name in the homes of many.

Don’t Be Afraid to Break Barriers

Her role as Santana Lopez on the Fox series was groundbreaking and she was able to portray the first lesbian couple on network television alongside Heather Morris.

It’s Okay to Evolve. In Fact It’s Necessary

I remember watching Glee back in high school and admiring the strength of Santana. Watching her character development was truly an honor and I’m so glad I got to follow along on her journey.

Everything Isn’t What It Seems

Not only did Naya’s character evolve, but Santana taught us that you can’t always judge a book by its cover. We truly have no idea what people are wrestling with. Sure, Santana seemed like a huge b*tch in the first few episodes of the series but as we get to know her and peel back her layers, there is much more to Santana and that is a beautiful lesson we must remember.

Shade Is Always A Good Thing

Naya portrayed Santana Lopez so well. And let me tell you, there was nothing better than Santana throwing shade. She did it in the best way, lowkey offensive way. And I was always okay with it for some reason lol. She was mean but truthful mixed with the perfect amount of wit and comedic timing. The best AND I MEAN THE BEST Santana shade was when she told off Kirk for a minute straight about why Blaine left Kirk and why she and Brittany are getting married. And the way she just through in the jaba Rachel’s eyebrows right before she started. Priceless hahaha.

I love how everyone grew to love Santana for who she was. Like she told Kirk off in one moment and the next moment he was in her wedding. It was all love.

There is so much more we can learn from Santana and many of Naya’s other characters. Leave some things you’ve learned and will take with you below. I hope this article helps bring healing. I know I can’t be the only person struggling with her death. The barriers she broke, the legacy she leaves behind with her son, Josey will never be forgotten. Naya, we love you.