Growing up is tough – it comes with challenges, it comes with changes, it comes with hardships. But it’s essential for our growth as individuals, and it’s a lesson that we learn from an early age. Disney has always been a great teacher of life lessons, and one of its most iconic movies – Brave – is a tale of growth, courage, and determination.
Merida, the protagonist of Brave, is a beautiful and brave princess who wants to break free from the expectations that come with being part of a royal family. She is tired of the conventions and traditions that her mother wants her to follow, and she wants to live her life on her own terms. Merida’s journey resonates with many of us who have struggled with expectations, pressures, and societal norms.
But Merida’s story is not the only one that teaches us about the power of growing up. Let’s take a look at some other Disney characters and how they have conquered their challenges through the process of growing up.
Simba from The Lion King is an excellent example of a character that learned to confront his problems through growing up. As a young cub, Simba had everything he wanted – a loving family, the admiration of his friends, and the freedom to do whatever he pleased. But when tragedy struck, and he lost his father, Simba had to grow up quickly and learn the harsh realities of life. It took him some time to accept his position as the future king and confront his fears. But eventually, with the guidance of his mentor, Rafiki, he conquered his doubts and faced his enemies.
Simba: “Rafiki, I can’t go back. It’s over for me.”
Rafiki: “Think you must, young Simba. It’s in your past.”
Simba: “But, how can I go back? I’m not who I used to be.”
Rafiki: “Remember who you are. You are my son and the one true king.”
Aladdin from Aladdin is another character that learned to grow up through facing his challenges. As a street rat, Aladdin had to depend on his wits and cunning to survive. But when he found himself in possession of a magic lamp, he had to learn to be brave and face his fears to save his love, Princess Jasmine. Despite his initial reluctance, Aladdin grew into a hero and proved himself worthy of Jasmine’s love.
Genie: “So, Al, you’re going to have to find that magic carpet ride and go save Jasmine.”
Aladdin: “Yeah, but how? I don’t own a magic carpet.”
Genie: “You’re going to have to find the diamond in the rough.”
Aladdin: “Diamond in the rough?”
Genie: “You’ve heard of it? The legend of the lamp?”
Aladdin: “No.”
Genie: “Well, the diamond in the rough. Whoever finds it will be granted three wishes.”
Hercules from Hercules is a perfect example of a character that had to learn to accept himself through growing up. As a demigod, Hercules never felt like he belonged anywhere. He was too strong, too different, and too much of a misfit. But as he grew up and faced challenges, he learned to embrace his powers and use them to help others. Through his journey, he found love, acceptance, and a sense of belonging that he never had before.
Phil: “Name’s Phil. Two l’s.”
Hercules: “Hi, Phil.”
Phil: “I trained all those famous heroes – Odysseus, Perseus, Theseus. And, ah, a few guys you never heard of – like, uh, uh, Hercules.”
Hercules: “I think I’ve heard of him.”
Phil: “Whoa-ho-ho! Got a sense of humor, huh? I like that. I’ll tell you what. You let me train ya, I’ll make you a hero. Or at least a pretty decent one.”
Growing up is never easy, and it comes with its share of challenges. But it’s also a process that helps us become stronger, wiser, and more resilient individuals. Through the characters of Merida, Simba, Aladdin, and Hercules, we can see how growing up can lead to great accomplishments and triumphs. By facing our challenges head-on, we can discover new strengths and overcome our fears. As Walt Disney said, “Growing old is mandatory. Growing up is optional.” And it’s up to us to choose how we want to grow up.
Growing up is difficult but necessary for personal growth. Disney characters such as Merida, Simba, Aladdin, and Hercules teach us how to overcome challenges, accept ourselves, and become stronger individuals.
“Growing old is mandatory. Growing up is optional.” – Walt Disney