Moana, Lisa Simpson, and Me

Here’s a tiny thing to try right now.

Take your name and insert it into this sentence: I am [your name].

Say it out loud (or just think it with clarity).

Straighten up and say or think it, with conviction. Deep breath. Again.

How does that feel?

Moana

I love the Disney movie Moana. In a climactic scene/song Moana connects with her inner power and belts out “I am MO-AH-NAAAAAA!” and sitting in the dark with my family I full-on bawled with a runny nose and everything. Even now just hearing any part of I am Moana (Song of the Ancestors) I tear up and break into a light sweat.

Yes, the visuals and the music and vocals have a big emotional effect but the idea of self-empowerment and determination is profound.

It’s even better when you add in the previous line from the song:

Come what may, I know the way
I am ______

Lisa Simpson

Many years ago I had a similar core memory experience watching The Simpsons. Young square peg Lisa Simpson idolizes a substitute teacher who believes in her and brings out her best. As he is leaving (on a train, for extra drama) he gives her a note that he says has everything she ever needs to know whenever she feels alone. The note reads, in its entirety: You are Lisa Simpson. Just typing that out right now I have an emotional reaction.

Everything you need to know.

Translation: the answers are within you.

Me

I think about this when I have questions in my life and I’m feeling indecisive or lost.

When I’m not sure what to do or how to act.

I know the way.
I am Kirk Roberts.

Sometimes it takes a while, sometimes it requires asking the right additional questions, but answers eventually emerge from within. Always.

You

Try it with your own name.

It will always be there when you need it.