With the upcoming release of "Goodbye Christopher Robin," I wanted to take a nostalgic trip back to the story of a young boy's childhood imaginary friends, and relish all the lessons that its characters have taught me about my life and myself. Here are just a few things Winnie the Pooh taught me about life:
1. Imagination can lead you on the grandest adventures.
Ever since I was small I've been making up stories in my head about this group of characters, or those monsters, or even that butterfly I saw 5 minutes ago. When I watched Winnie the Pooh, I felt like Christopher Robin -- exploring this fantastical world, and creating magnificent stories in them.
2. It's okay to be stuck sometimes.
I didn't realize this until late into life, but like Pooh always getting stuck in search of honey, I have also been getting stuck in search of something that I love to do. I've tried so many things, and I've liked just as many things as I disliked. I'm currently still searching for my honey, but I know I'll get there on my own time.
3. Depression is an uphill battle, but in good company, you can make it through the worst days.
4. It's okay to be different. In the end, no one can replace you.
Tigger was the last of his kind and at first, he was a bit sad about it. When a reunion for all the Tiggers ends up with Tigger by himself, all his friends arrive to cheer him up. He was the only Tigger and to them, that didn't matter because Tigger was still Tigger to them.
5. Friends come in all shapes and sizes.
From Pooh to Piglet, to Rabbit, Tigger, Kanga, Roo, Owl, Eeyore, they all were one little boy's dream, but through the work of his parents and many others, this group of characters became friends to kids all over the world.
Overall, Winnie the Pooh taught me about the lasting effects of friendship. So, to Christopher Robin, thank you from all the kids who grew up with Winnie the Pooh. They will always be our friends.
"We didn't realize we were making memories. We just knew we were having fun."
