All you pre- and post-90's kids out there may not know the cartoon "Rugrats," but when my peers and I reminisce on childhood memories, that show makes the list. Not only was it an adventure for my 5-year-old imagination, it taught quality lessons to youngsters all around the world about the faults and triumphs of life.
The main protagonist, Tommy Pickles, was a brave toddler and the leader of his little friendship circle. His cousin, Angelica, was only a few years older than he and the rest of the gang, and was quick to earn the title of anti-heroine, due to her brat-like tendencies.
As an impressionable grade-schooler such as myself, I strived to be just like Tommy. In addition to his kind heart and intellect, he placed emphasis on bravery and adventure and wasn't afraid to stand up for and to his friends.
Yet, as a 21-year-old woman, I find myself wondering why so many of my peers and fellow university students are consumed with ungratefulness. Now, I don't mean they have temper tantrums when they don't get what they want or throw a fit when things don't go their way, but the Angelica aura still lingers among the attitudes of those around me. This "grown-up" version of Angelica isn't thankful and is stricken with the disease of "more."
But wanting more for yourself isn't a bad thing, right? Well, no. It's healthy and a sign of growth. On the other hand, the line is crossed when you are unable to appreciate what you already have.
To push your buttons a little, consider this: If you are religious and claim to have faith in whatever God, god, or gods you worship, why would you question or challenge them? Why would you not trust their guidance? Some food for thought...
So what's your poison? -- Do you long for a lover? Are you envious of the perpetually successful individuals? Whatever it may be...what's stopping you? If you truly want something, the only hurdle is the thought of not being able to achieve it. Maybe what you *really* struggle with is something else, like self-doubt possibly? If so, Chuckie Finster is your spirit animal at the moment and you need to dig deep to find your Tommy. He would continue to find ways to make things happen and wouldn't stop 'till he gets there.
However, have you ever thought maybe it just isn't the time right now to have the things you so desperately "need?" Is it necessary to have a boyfriend or girlfriend just for the sake of not feeling lonely or to cut loose from the singleton label? Or, do you really have to be involved with 50 clubs, be recognized for every little achievement or have hundreds of friends in order to feel important or successful?
When you take a step back and get a good look of what's right there in front of you -- your family, your genuine, long-term pals and all the privileges you are so fortunate to have, like attending college, driving a car, access to things that brighten your soul...
What more can you possibly want?
Eventually your aspirations will come into fruition, in due time of course. Just be patient. Whether or not you have found solace in knowing what your future plans are, it doesn't matter. If you don't appreciate the journey, there's no point in celebrating when you reach the goal. So whenever Angelica starts to creep in, self-reflect and bring Tommy back. Because if a toddler can wake up every morning with a grateful heart, so can you.
