“I am Merida, and I’ll be shooting for my own hand.” ~ Merida, BRAVE, 2012
How often do we feel like we need to be rescued? Where do we look to find solutions to our problems? In the movie Brave, Princess Merida decides to “fight the system” and compete for her own hand in marriage.Against her mother’s wishes, she participates in and wins the archery competition between the young men from the other clans whose families accepted the invitation to marry the young princess. What lesson can we learn from this character? What is it about Merida and her actions that can teach us to be brave in our own lives?
During the story, Merida feels the most freedom when she is out in nature, living in the moment on her “princess duty-free” days. Here, we learn the importance of maintaining our connection with nature, of learning to appreciate every moment, and to bask in the joy that each day brings. Even after her mom is turned into a bear, the pair experiences the most joy when out in nature enjoying each moment together. How can living in the present make us a hero?
What exactly does it mean to be a hero? A hero, as defined by Merriam-Webster online, is “a person who is admired for great or brave acts or fine qualities.” Heroes are often characterized as completing mighty acts, overcoming insurmountable odds, or accomplishing what others only dream of. Many times, we also see the hero coming in to protect another defenseless or weaker person (more often than not, a woman). Heroes can be perceived as being fearless and as something we are not, but we all possess the qualities necessary to be our own hero. One of the most important actions that Merida took was to be true to her authentic self.
So, to be our own hero, let’s remember self-love, believing in yourself, your dreams and living in the present moment. With that, will come deep gratitude for every moment and experience. Knowing that we are loved and connected to the Universe can propel us to take actions that reflect and amplify this love. It is not only “mighty” acts that make us a hero, but also the little steps we take toward our dream and our feelings about these steps that make us a hero. Today, take some quiet time to listen to your spirit, visualize your future and feel the emotion and characteristics of your desired life. Find ways to bring these emotions into your daily life while you engage in experiences that connect you with nature and with living in the present. It is here that you will find the strength and courage to live a life even better than you imagine.
In what ways are you the hero of your own story? How can you practice living in the present? Are there objects, relationships, or obligations that you need to let go of in order to be more present with what really matters in your life?
I’m being a hero in my own life by walking my spiritual path openly, by going for the life I want instead of settling, and by refusing to accept disrespectful behavior even though it leads to divorce.
Linda Ursin recently posted…Gifts and news for you
That’s awesome to hear Linda – that you are walking your own path and not settling!
Hi Felicia!
How have I not seen Brave? I LOVE Disney movies. My son is finally at the age where we can curl up for a family movie night, so I’m enjoying reliving my childhood 🙂
I’m a hero in my own life in so many ways (WOW, that just flowed out of me and I was not expecting to write it!) I have major-big lady ‘cojones’ for following my dream with my business, even though it hasn’t been easy. I’m committed! And, doing all that with a little guy in tow, and a loving marriage to nourish…and a house to keep. I know I’m certainly not alone here, can I get an amen entrepreneurial mamas?! I’m also a hero because I continue to have the courage to face my inner world in the name of expansion and evolution…even when it’s totally scary or messy and even when it’s the last thing I want to do. Personal and spiritual growth is not for the faint of heart but it’s a path where I walk the talk (even if it doesn’t move as quickly as I’d like! 😉
Marcie recently posted…Following intuition = no fear? False.
Hi Marcie! Yes, I completely agree with your statements, especially: Personal and spiritual growth is not for the faint of heart but it’s a path where I walk the talk…..
We all need to recognize how we do act as a hero in our own lives! I’m glad to see that you do 🙂
This spoke to me as truth Felicia: “One of the most important actions that Merida took was to be true to her authentic self.”
For me, this can seem so easy, yet so hard!!! lol The cycles of following my heart have seem to bring me such pain, and on the other side such freedom. Whew, my authentic self continues to amaze me. Your message and encouragement is so appreciated!
Thank YOU.
Melody Granger recently posted…How to Wash Dishes Faster, Even if You’re Doing Them by Your Sudsy Hands!
You are welcome Melody 🙂
New movie added to list to watch! I am my own hero by also being my own best partner. I realized long ago, “prince charming” wasn’t going to come a swoop me up on his white horse, and I was hurt, alone and sad while I waited for this realization. Today, I am there for me first and this has helped me in so many ways, i actually give more and receive more by putting Jen first. It was time Disney caught up with the times lol. Thank you!
Jennifer Castaneda recently posted…#1 Reason To Not Give Up On Love Yet
You are welcome Jennifer! It is sometimes difficult to see that we have more to give when we take care of ourselves first! I’m glad Disney caught up with the times too 🙂