I have yet to meet a Broadway fan who does not like "Wicked." I'm sure they exist, but I probably would not get along with them. It is one of my absolute favorite musicals--although, if I'm being honest, there are not a lot of musicals that I don't like. I have only had the pleasure of seeing it live once, but I listen to the soundtrack pretty regularly. It makes my heart sing, and I am not ashamed of it. Anyway, I realized that the show has some pretty solid life lessons incorporated throughout. Here is what it taught me.
1. When in doubt, sing it out.
This could probably be learned from any musical, but basically you should always sing about everything. Sad? Sing until you feel better. In love? Tell them with song. Inspired? That's right, sing about it.
2. Your first impressions of people are probably wrong.
Even if you think you're going to loathe someone for the rest of your life, give them a chance. You could build a beautiful friendship once you get past your differences.
3. Dancing through life may not be the best way to live.
Letting go and having fun are very important, but not if you're only "skimming the surface." Ignorance is not necessarily bliss; thinking is important!
4. There are more important things in life than being "popular."
Glinda (excuse me Galinda) was dead set on making Elphaba pretty and well-liked. But did it really make either of them happier? In the end they were both better off when they cared less about their images.
5. You don't have to be "that girl" to get the guy (or girl).
Even if you're not traditionally attractive (or you happen to be green), you can still have your love story. Romance isn't solely reserved for the pretty blonde ones.
6. Live your life like you only have "one short day" to enjoy it.
The world is your Emerald City. Treat it that way.
7. When life is keeping you down, defy gravity.
Basically just follow the words of the song. When people are holding you back, leave them behind, trust yourself, and fly (figuratively speaking).
8. You might be wrong about what you think will make you happy.
Is happy what happens when all your dreams come true? Or is it learning to be happy with what you have?
9. Even wonderful "wizards" have their struggles.
People may all look up to that one person who they think is super great, but is anyone really that much better than anyone else? You never know who may have cheated their way to the top, so stop comparing yourself to the people you idolize. They're all regular people with their fair share of challenges, too.
10. Good deeds may not always have obvious payoffs.
This doesn't mean you should stop doing them (or turn evil). Just don't expect an award every time you do something good, and don't forget to make time to take care of yourself too.
11. Appreciate the people who make an impact on your life.
If someone has changed you "for good," you should let them know. Chances are you've impacted them too.
12. If all else fails, fake your death.
Just kidding, this probably isn't great advice. But I guess if it really comes to that...
