Raising Little Women

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"I like good strong words that mean something." 

Louisa May Alcott


     To my shame, I have yet to read the Louisa May Alcott classic novel, "Little Women." I have, however, seen both the 1994 and the 2019 film adaptations of her novel. I might be breaking the bro code by admitting this, but I thoroughly enjoyed both films. I find strong, independent women, like the character Jo in those films, to be inspiring. So how can my wife and I encourage those same qualities in the four "little women" we are endeavoring to raise? 

     Moana was officially the first film that my oldest daughter watched all the way through to the end. As we sat there at my friend's house, taking in this beautiful film on a 55" HDTV, she was enthralled. If you haven't seen it yet, check it out (that means you too, Dads). The protagonist, Moana, is a sixteen-year-old Pacific islander who embarks on a journey across the ocean to find the demi-god Maui and convince him to help her return the heart of Tafiti, which he stole 1000 years ago, to its owner. This act would save her people from impending destruction. 

    I love the fact that there is no romantic storyline in the film. While Moana does need the help of Maui, a male demi-god, she is the one leading the way and pushing them towards their goal. Along the way, she helps Maui to find healing from some deep, personal wounds and to rediscover his own power and abilities. Moana is, in every sense of the word, the hero of the story. I am glad that my daughters love this film, and I truly hope that they internalize its message.








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