Anyone who knows me can attest to my love (ok, obsession) with “GLEE,” and, judging by the overwhelming turnout at the GLEE Live! Concert last weekend, it seems I’m not alone. The show and its motley crew cast of characters have become overnight sensations. Self-proclaimed GLEEKs across the country quickly embraced the show for celebrating outcasts, misfits and the otherwise “uncool.” Not to be confused with “High School Musical” or other teen-driven “dramedies,” “GLEE” strikes just the right chord in capturing an outsider’s susceptibility to anxieties and pressures when one’s self-confidence is tested or popularity ranking declines.

For those who are blissfully unaware of “GLEE” and its quirky charms, I have made it my personal mission to inform the uninformed of why it has such a cult-like following. The show’s elaborate musical numbers, satirical undertones, and, best of all, its ability to teach important life lessons in a light, non-preachy way has the ability to appeal to the masses. For example, this week’s episode centered on Kurt, the flamboyant character with the gender-bending voice who revels in being different, whether that means wearing elaborate Lady Gaga-inspired ensembles to school or crushing on his soon-to-be step-brother, Finn, the school’s resident jock. The boys’ families moved in together, and when faced with the prospect of sharing a room, a particularly rousing scene ensued. Finn, clearly displeased with Kurt’s femme redecoration, resorts to hurtful name-calling, and Kurt’s loyal father quickly comes to his son’s defense, kicking Finn out of the house. The show wraps this storyline with a sweet bonding moment between Finn and Kurt. Finn, dressed in head-to-toe red latex a la Miss Gaga herself, defends Kurt’s honor when he is bullied by two jocks, proving to the world that it’s cool to be different.

As we look toward the season finale on June 8th, GLEEKs will need to seek refuge from reality elsewhere, perhaps loading up their iPods with the mélange of tunes from the show and rocking out Rachel Berry-style in the shower or at a local Karaoke bar. That’s the beauty of the show – it’s all about being true to yourself and feeling empowered to be whoever you want to be, freak, GLEEK or otherwise. Let your GLEEK flag fly!