Why can’t we all live like Timon and Pumbaa from The Lion King?

As 2016 came to a close, many people brainstormed resolutions that should be valued throughout the new year. Perhaps you do achieve these goals or value these priorities. Unfortunately, for me, I rarely complete these, for I tend to forget those simple words I learned at such a young age- Hakuna Matata.

We tend to take those Disney movies for granted; we forget the messages being portrayed.

After reflecting on the previous year, I have seen endless posts about 2016 titled, “The worst year ever,” or “such a disappointment.” I feel as if people consume these thoughts after almost any year is over and pray that the impending one is quite different than the last.

For me- 2016 has had its fulfilled memories and its saddening downfalls. Recollections range from graduating high school to losing some of the greatest friendships I had ever possessed. Unfortunately, that is what life is- we experience some of the best and worst times all at once.

Anyway, Hakuna Matata, a memorable song from The Lion King recently came back into my life. Characters, Timon and Pumbaa, repeatedly sing, “It means no worries for the rest of your days.” After listening to it at the age of eighteen, the meaning these characters convey is so powerful and significant, but viewers do not even exercise it; this includes myself. Why can’t life be that simple?

I know we cannot just run through the lands of Tanzania and sing Hakuna Matata and just expect life to be tolerable. However, we can embrace those lyrics that first soothed our ears at the age of six. We can learn to truly have “no worries.” We can attempt to spend 2017 in peace, in a sea of happiness where the little things do not bother us.

That will be my motto for 2017- to live a year with “no worries.” Hakuna Matata.