Fairy tales and cartoons: Why does this passion still help us get through life as an adult?
It was one of those strange and unsuccessful days when a strange despair and sad mood came over me.
The kind of mood that makes you want to crawl into bed, close the curtains, snuggle under the blanket, and eradicate all thoughts from your confused mind with the inevitable tears that roll down your face.
It occurred to me that the only thing that could bring me back to a happier reality would be the cartoons I loved as a child or children's movies that would transport me to a realm of dreams and fantasy as an escape from all the inevitable worries and responsibilities.
Once upon a time, we all sat sprawled out on soft carpets, eyes wide and mouths slightly agape, as a voice from a TV cartoon or a melodious reading from our parents transported us to lands where frogs talk, heroes come from humble places, and every conflict is resolved with warmth or wisdom.
Fairy tales and cartoons may have been intended for our younger selves, but their influence extends far beyond childhood. Even for us adults, their simplicity and timeless lessons are a beacon of hope - a source of comfort and strength in a world that is often too heavy for us to bear alone.
The timeless appeal of simple stories
The beauty of fairy tales and cartoons lies in their simplicity and the fact that complex life lessons are wrapped up in accessible stories. In the daily hustle and bustle of adult responsibilities - work deadlines, family problems, and a constant barrage of bad news - the magic of the fairy tale, where good triumphs over evil and courage defeat despair, is a welcome refuge. These stories remind us that hope is not naive and happy endings, though sometimes delayed, are not impossible.
Take, for example, Pixar's Inside Out, a film seemingly made for children but containing profound truths for adults. It teaches that embracing grief is necessary for healing and growth, a reminder that adults often need but rarely encounter. Or think of the timeless Disney classic, The Lion King, where Simba's journey to reclaim his place in the life cycle resonates deeply with anyone struggling with self-doubt or feeling unworthy of their destiny.
A place where you can feel, heal, and reflect
Our need for fairy tales and cartoons in adulthood is not just about nostalgia. It's about creating space for the raw emotions we often repress. These stories give us permission to cry, laugh, and even believe in better things when cynicism tries to crush us. When the weight of reality becomes unbearable, the whimsy and optimism in cartoons like Up or the resilience demonstrated in Finding Nemo remind us of our ability to endure and find light in the darkness.
Last year, I struggled with a personal setback that left me feeling devastated. One evening, with a bowl of nuts and nothing but an ache in my heart, I put on the animated movie Pocahontas, Lady and the Tramp, and a bunch of other stories with deep thought.
The stories were tender, full of laughter and tenderness that took me to a world where kindness, connection, and joy still thrive. The characters became the shining star I needed, the quiet nudge that whispered: "You're going to be okay." And I felt fine. Stories like this are more than mere distractions - they are life savers.
And I have 4 tips for you to embrace childhood miracles into your adult lives...
1.Make time for storytelling: Dedicate one evening a week to watching a favorite childhood movie or discovering a new animated film. Immerse yourself in it without cynicism.
2. Engage in story themes: Think about what resonates with you. Are you drawn to stories of bravery, redemption, or whimsical adventures? What do these stories tell you about your own life and what you are seeking?
3. Share them with loved ones: Experience these stories with friends or family. Discussing the themes and characters deepens their impact and creates a shared emotional experience that strengthens bonds with each other.
4. Collect small symbols: Surround yourself with small mementos, such as a stuffed animal from a favorite cartoon or a quote from a favorite story, that can serve as daily reminders of hope and resilience.
Why do we need fairy tales and cartoons in adulthood?
In a world full of complexities and difficulties, fairy tales and cartoons offer clarity, hope, and joy. They encourage us to be more courageous, kind, and optimistic. They remind us that even when all seems lost, there is a light - a hidden power waiting to be found. This connection to our inner child anchors us, reminding us of simpler times while giving us the resilience to face the present.
Stories have a special magic - they can heal in ways that therapy or words alone sometimes cannot. They are a compass when we feel lost, and a safe haven when life is too noisy. So cherish your child's love of fairy tales and cartoons.
Let them pull you out of despair when your days seem dark, and above all, trust that the sweetest stories - including your own - may have the most unexpected, beautiful chapters ahead.
We don't grow out of the need for sweet stories, they just grow with us and turn into more powerful lifelines.
We find the courage to continue them; they remind us that even in a world of adult worries, there is always room for whimsy, hope, and a little magic.
And isn't that the salvation we're all looking for?
Do you also find comfort in fairy tales? Do you have a favorite cartoon that always makes you feel hopeful and in a better mood? What do you experience in it?
I'm interested in your thoughts...
