"Spy Kids 2: Island of Lost Dreams" was recently on "Cartoon Network." As I was watching it I realized how, no matter how many times I saw this movie as a kid, it becomes even more magical to me as I've become an adult.
Some people may consider it lame that at almost 25 years old, I watch and still absolutely love Disney movies. Some people will never understand what Disney does. Some will also never understand why I love Disney. But, for me, Disney is engraved into my being, just as much as being a writer is.
There is nothing better than curling up on the couch with an old Disney movie.
After a stressful day, watching any of the 90s classic Disney movies is exactly what is needed. Some of my personal favorites to relieve stress are "Tarzan", "The Lion King", "The Lion King 2" and " Beauty and the Beast."
Other favorites include "The Little Mermaid", "Mulan", "Pocahontas" and "101 Dalmatians." (Both the live and cartoon version.)
"Spy Kids 2" reminds me that there is nothing more important than family and to help people no matter what. Other things I’ve learned through "Mulan" and "Tarzan", are to face your fears head on and to stand up for what you believe in. "Beauty and the Beast" has taught me not to judge someone before you get to know them. "Pocahontas" has taught me to follow my heart no matter the cost.
For me, Disney movies are so much more than just movies from my childhood.They're a chance to get back to that imaginative place I always went to when I was a kid. They help me imagine what could happen and can still happen in my life.
Heck, quite frankly, I know I'll never fully grow out of wanting to watch Disney movies. They're such a part of who I am and what makes me, me. Watching them over and over again never gets old. Anyone can argue with me all they want, but nothing beats watching a classic like "Tarzan" or "101 Dalmatians" or "The Little Mermaid", or "Toy Story" to put me in a better mood.
These movies make me believe that anything is possible They help me believe in love, even love at first sight, which I have experienced. Disney movies help me see the future in a brighter, more optimistic way. I think to myself, If Mulan can risk her life to save her father, her family and her country, I can get through obstacles in my life.
If Pocahontas can fall in love with someone and try to unite two different sets of people--the settlers and the Indians--then I can help people understand how important it is to accept everyone.
If Belle can see the beauty behind Beast’s rough exterior, then I can look past people’s flaws too. If Simba can face his past head on and defeat his evil uncle in battle, I can prove people wrong who don’t support my idea of writing for a living. If Kiara and Kovu can help two feuding sides come together in "The Lion King 2", then I can try and help people work through any issues that they might have. Sebastian has taught me to be a good friend, and Ariel has taught me to go after what I want in life.
Although life isn't always a fairytale, it does have some awesome fairytale-like moments.
One moment in my own personal fairy-tale includes finding a boyfriend who loves to watch Disney movies with me no matter how many times we've seen them. Another example is the fact that we have done duets of Disney songs such as "Beauty and the Beast". And not very many guys can sing "Kiss De Girl" from "The Little Mermaid", but mine can! I even ask for recordings of it to show off to my friends and family. One day we will be listening to “Kiss De Girl” and reenacting that scene in the lagoon with a canoe. The only difference is, Ursula, no other people or species of eels, will spoil our lives together. Disney has shown us that we can work through difficult aspects of life, which other couples may not get through as easily.
Another example of part of our fairy tale is through us always singing along with Disney soundtracks. Some may think it's lame for us to listen to soundtracks of 101 Dalmatians and The Lion King and Tarzan until the CD stops working, but it’s awesome for us. We enjoy the soundtracks and the movies, more than anyone else in our families.
We have danced to countless songs from "Tarzan", "The Little Mermaid" and "The Lion King". My prince has taught me how to waltz to the songs, “Can You Feel The Love Tonight”, “Beauty and the Beast" and "You'll Be in My Heart". I've sang "Colors of The Wind" in front of him many times too.
We recite the lines to whichever Disney movie we are watching--especially "Pirates of The Caribbean". We aren’t afraid to let people know we memorized our favorite movies. We constantly bring up Disney lines in whatever situation we may be in with our families. They always have to be reminded which movie the lines are from.
I will always love Disney movies and the way they affect me in positive ways. They’ve helped me find love in ways I never thought possible. I’m forever thankful to Disney for creating the movies that bring me back to the nostalgia of being a kid, helping me imagine the endless possibilities that life brings.
I'm not ashamed at all to admit I am a true Disney addict in every aspect of the word. I know for a fact that I wouldn't be who I am without the music and magic behind each film. I wouldn't have the imagination that I have if it weren't for Disney being such a strong part of my childhood. Disney gives me a reason to dream!
The bottom line is: Experience the magic! You're never too old for a Disney movie!
