Dear "Star Wars,"
Thank you for the impact you made on my childhood. Thank you for sparking my imagination and pushing me to break the gender barriers. Thank you for driving me to search for adventure, or make an adventure out of everyday life. Because of the wonder and curiosity you ignited in me, I look at life from another perspective. I wonder if there truly is a galaxy far, far away, filled with culture, lore and exploration.
The first time I sat down on my basement floor and my dad put on "The Phantom Menace" for me, I couldn’t look away. I was so enthralled by the environments, by the aliens, by the action. The music created a sense of drama when Qui-Gon sacrificed himself for Obi-Wan and action when Queen Amidala and her guards took back Naboo Palace. After I finished Episode I, I demanded my father put the next one on. I was drawn into the magic of the "Star Wars" universe, and I could not stop.
"Star Wars" brings people together in a way no other movie series can. The feeling of finding out someone else enjoys it is something special. When my father showed my sister and I the "Star Wars" movies, I became obsessed. I switched my Barbie dolls out for "Star Wars" action figures. The women in the "Star Wars" universe inspired me to not be the damsel, but to be the heroine. Padme Amidala was a politician who was never afraid to speak her mind, which society, unfortunately, teaches women not to do. Leia, like her mother, was also not afraid to speak the truth and take matters into her own hands when the Rebel's actions did not go according to plan. Seeing powerful women fight alongside their male counterparts taught me to take life by the reigns and do things myself.
Although everything about "Star Wars" is fantastic -- the best part is its ability to cross generations. It can be an adventure the whole family can enjoy. No matter how old the movies may be, they never lose their incredible storytelling abilities. There are so many mediums to tell the "Star Wars" lore through, from the original novel series (yes, there is a book series) to the Lego video games. The wide variety of characters each have unique personalities and are relatable in their own ways.
As much as I fear them ruining the series, I am thankful Disney decided to revive the series. This allows the millennials to see the incredible action and storytelling that is "Star Wars." Just as my father showed me the movies as a young child, I will show them to my children, and hope they show it to their children. So thank you, "Star Wars," for all of the memories, and may the force be with you.
Sincerely,
A wannabe Jedi Knight
