save the miracle - Mirabel
I so sincerely hope this finds you well - healthy, peaceful, safe, and connected - and living in a meaningful way that fills and fulfills you.
Last week I mentioned the movie Encanto…You didn’t really think I’d let that go with one email, I hope?!? ;)
While I shared some general themes and observations, I wanted to follow up with additional insights and tips inspired by the movie characters - especially Mirabel - a young girl who is repeatedly encouraged to stop trying to help and stay out of the way.
Do you recognize that feeling? If you’re anything like me, (or anyone else I talk to), fears, doubts, and uncertainties can too quickly derail desire to take on challenges, make a difference, and accomplish the impossible.
Questions like who you are to do great things, how you can possibly expect to make a significant difference in a world with so much hate, or what other people will think of you for disrupting the status quo may keep you from recognizing and sharing your real gifts.
My hope is you can apply these for yourself (immediately!), as well as your interactions with others of all ages.
Inspiration from Mirabel in Encanto:
Mirabel sets out to “save the miracle”. Even though she does not know how to do something so significant, she begins with one step at a time. She doesn’t allow not having the answers to stop her.
What is one step you can take toward a miracle?
She listens to each person and responds with care (even when she has preconceived notions and sometimes strong opinions about the people with whom she talks!) Through Mirabel’s openness, she experiences a change in perspective, greater connection, clarity, and deeper, more authentic relationships. So do others around her.
Who can you listen to despite your preconceived notions?
When Mirabel tries to force an outcome from an interaction, it doesn’t work. Yet, when she (and her family) express their real emotions (even the ‘less than perfect’ ones), connection follows naturally and more meaningfully. True repairs begin.
Instead of trying to construct your desired outcome, where can you listen to heartfelt emotions?
Mirabel demonstrates the value of connections across differences. She connects to her elders as well as the eager (and perhaps over-caffeinated!) youth, and even to the outcasts. In doing so, she helps others to see and appreciate their inner worth and value and bring out more of their unique gifts.
Where can you demonstrate a value and appreciation for differences?
As she connects to and sees each person for who they really are, they each also begin to honor what they need to be their best selves. For example, Louisa recognizes the need to slow down, be vulnerable, and accept help and Isabella experiences the benefit of letting go of “perfection” and expands her confidence in what she can do.
How can you support your own needs (and others') in service of greater health and wholeness?
Through encouraging each person’s authentic self, Mirabel also strengthens the connections of others around her.
How can you support healthy, welcoming connections around you?
Without knowing the outcome, following her passion into the unknown leads Mirabel to recognize more of her own strengths, as well. As she puts it, “I see all of me.”
What strengths can you recognize and honor (especially those that you haven't acknowledged before)?
With so many people struggling to recognize their value and experience a place of safety and belonging - how might you channel Mirabel’s approach in your own life?
I’d love to know - and I’m so excited to hear about the miracles waiting on the other side of your next steps!
You matter. You can make a difference. I’m so thankful you’re here.
