This Does Not Define You

My son has watched Moana at least a million times. He has been completely enthralled by each and every character but loves Hei Hei the most. I have also watched the movie at least a half-million times and I relate to Te Kā the most. She was just misunderstood.

Help! My Heart was Stolen!

Te Fiti, in all her glory, was minding her business creating life when Maui came and stole her heart. She turns into a hard-shelled monster filled with hot lava ready to explode at any minute.

I’ve also had my heart stolen and it left me feeling a little like Te Kā. Actually, let’s be honest, I felt a lot like Te Kā! I was angry about my situation, I was sad and I felt like I would always be mad at the person that made me that way. I created a hard outer shell that was impenetrable to protect myself.

Return My Heart!

I wanted my heart back. But, unlike Te Kā, my heart was still in my chest. I didn’t need Maui to return it I just needed to find a way to heal.

It was while watching Moana for the 1,000,001st time that I realized that I could do the work myself and turn back into the beautiful loving creature I always was.

“Where you are now is not where you have to stay” and “This does not define you” became my mantras. I would say them like affirmations daily and still do.

So, please remember that beneath the surface all of us have the potential to be better than we were yesterday. I like to say that I have bad moments of the day instead of saying I had a bad day. Because my whole day is rarely all terrible.

You are beautiful inside and out just like Teifiti mama and don’t let anyone ever take that away from you.

And

Hey Disney we want Moana 2 soon!

Marissa Winters
Marissa has lived in Lafayette since 2014 and quickly fell in love with Louisiana culture, community spirit and the amazing food!! Marissa is the Director of Healthy Acadiana at the United Way of Acadiana and loves to be the helper. Marissa has a 5 year old named Jackson and absolutely loves being his Mama. Follow along with them as they navigate the waters of school, co-parenting, and so much more.