Change

Over 2500 years ago Greek philosopher Heraclitus is credited for sharing the idea that “the only constant in life is change.”

“I’m not gonna be the Dragon Warrior?” Po asks Master Shifu in Kung Fu Panda 4.

What does that mean? What’s next?? The patient teacher shares his expectations for Po, as the animated panda begins to grapple with the idea of a new role that doesn’t seem like a “fit.”

The idea of change can be scary unless we can reframe the paradigm to one of swash- buckling adventure as alluded to Frozen 2’s “Into the Unknown.” As Elsa searches for the source of the hauntingly beautiful voice, her character develops in ways that wouldn’t be possible if she’d stayed in the castle. Similarly, Moana is drawn to the sea and Asha selflessly pursues a wish.

Movies and stories “written for children” invite adults to examine the substance that comprises their own character, as they relate to pandas, princesses, and more. Change doesn’t leave any of us where we started, but launches us into new, sometimes unexpected directions, offering experiences (not always desired) that force us to grow more resilient and hopefully, more compassionate toward ourselves and others.

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