Chris Traeger’s positivity has a dark origin, but that never stopped him from impacting Pawnee with his can-do attitude on Parks and Recreation.
Chris Traeger is one of the most upbeat characters on Parks and Recreationbut the real reason why he is so positive has a dark origin that no one saw coming. As the City Manager, Chris had a serious job where it was hard making friends, especially when he showed up in Pawnee to help the town with its budget crisis. Because of his happy-go-lucky attitude, he was able to create a life for himself in the unsuspecting town, becoming friends with the likes of Leslie Knope and Ann Perkins.
Eventually, Chris became like family to those working in city government, and while the people of Pawnee can be a little weird, Chris made it his home, alongside Ben Wyatt, Ron Swanson, Tom Haverford, and the rest of the show’s main characters. It was once he became comfortable in Pawnee, over the course of multiple seasons of Parks and Recreationthat his friends realized he wasn’t as composed and upbeat as he appeared. In fact, a moment from his childhood was to blame for his personality shift.
Chris Traeger Is So Positive Because Of A Former Trauma
Chris Traeger was as physically fit as he was positive in his attitude. Unlike the rest of Pawnee, Chris cared about how he treated his body and mind, and he always hoped others would catch on and do the same. While Chris was sometimes relatable on Parks and Recreationwhen Ann Perkins tried being as uplifting and active as him, it took a toll on her. She theorized how Chris was so happy, but nothing made sense. When she finally asked Chris how he was able to stay so energized all the time, he let her in on a little secret.
When Chris was born, he was diagnosed with a rare blood disorder and was given only three weeks to live. Now as a healthy and functioning adult, Chris knows how fragile life is and is determined to live like every day could possibly be his last. This is why he takes so many supplements and works out like a fiend.
Chris’s Positivity Impacted Pawnee
The impact Chris Traeger had on the people of Pawnee was infectious. Ever the unenthusiastic worker, April Ludgate started a job with Chris, albeit one that didn’t last very long, and couldn’t help being bombarded by happiness the whole time. Chris’s Optimism even inspired Andy Dwyer to look for a job that he was passionate about. And when Leslie Knope needed some extra hands campaigning, Chris stepped up and did what he could to help a friend in need. Leslie was usually left alone trying to motivate Pawnee , but with Chris in the picture, he made her life easier.
Chris’s enthusiasm for life wasn’t enough to inspire Pawnee to eat healthier or to work out, but his continued lust for life was captivating. Knowing he almost died at a young age and had to theoretically go through hoops to maintain his health is enough to respect his character. And while Pawnee’s citizens showed they cared more about sugar than their longevity on Parks and RecreationChris made an impact on those at city government and didn’t stop being himself when those around him were tired of his positivity. He is a true inspiration to those around him.