Cinderella Strong – Guest Post by August McLaughlin
Last April, I read a post on the Cinderella fairy tale that made me see it in a completely new light. I couldn’t stop thinking about it, so I asked the author, August McLaughlin, if she’d allow me to re-post it here today. If you’re not already a regular reader of August’s blog, make sure you go there after. It’s my favorite place to get well-being tips–from healthy eating, to inspiration, to resolutions that could save our lives.
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Cinderella Strong
By August McLaughlin
Taken literally, one could argue—and numerous have—that Disney’s Cinderella is a passive woman who does nothing to improve her dismal situation.
Rather than stand up to her evil step-family or step out on her own, she relies on others—singsong mice, her fairy godmother, and a handsome prince. She makes wishes, and they do the dirty work. Her prize? A beauty makeover and happily ever after with Bachelor #1.
In the 1980s, psychologist Colette Dowling presented similar views in her best-selling book, Cinderella Complex: Woman’s Hidden Fear of Independence. (It’s a fascinating read, if you’re interested.)
But what if Cinderella is entirely metaphorical? Here’s what I see:
Cinderella’s mice represent her spirit, prodding her to believe in “the dreams [her] heart makes?” Our hearts recognize our dreams before we can pursue them.
The evil step-family illustrates the naysayers in life—people, including ourselves, who tell us to stop striving, that our goals and pursuits are foolish, that we’re destined to live out our lives doing undesirable work, caring for everyone but ourselves.
The fairy godmother is Cinderella’s muse—the inner voice that prompts us to step out of our comfort zones and toward our passion.
The glowing gown she wears reflects how she feels once she begins honing in on her dreams. Once we find the “shoe” (life path) that fits, we stands a bit taller, and our inner-beauty shines outward.
Reverting to her “raggedy” self at midnight represents the time, rest and self-care personal growth requires. There are no quick fixes. We all face risks and challenges along the way. If we embrace them, they can help make us strong.
And speaking of passion, the hunky prince represents the handsome life Cinderella eventually obtains, and the chivalry she finally shows herself. Once that happens, the world is her stage to dance on. Sure, we might get blisters now and then, and every step won’t be graceful, but we’re free to live happy, authentic lives.
Ever seen bits of Cinderella in yourself? When have you felt Cinderella-like? What did the experience teach you?
August McLaughlin is a thriller author, health writer and freelance journalist based in Los Angeles. To learn more, visit her website and connect with her on Twitter: @AugstMcLaughlin.
Aug 27, 2012 @ 13:45:25
I love the symbolism behind each of the story parts! I’m a huge Cinderella fan – have been since I can remember. To me she represents quiet strength. Imagine, being ridiculed for so long, forced to labor like she was, and still have the discipline not to strike back but the quiet wisdom to maintain a beautiful heart. That’s a quality of strength most of us only dream about having.
Aug 27, 2012 @ 14:53:04
I never thought about it that way, but you’re so right. If I was in her situation, I don’t think I would have maintained her sweetness and patience. I probably would have been bitter and resentful and vindictive. So Cinderella is a role model in that sense as well 🙂
Aug 27, 2012 @ 23:37:20
I agree. Great point, Carrie. So glad you enjoyed the post. 🙂
Aug 27, 2012 @ 16:27:48
Interesting. I never thought of all the characters being able to represent Cinderella’s internal life. Personally, I like Cinderella spin-offs like Ever After better than the Disney version–they make that strength and growth process more explicitly evident.
Aug 27, 2012 @ 16:51:14
Ever After is a favorite of mine because Danielle shows how Cinderella could have been a strong heroine. I also think it’s a more believable version of the struggle that would have gone on because Cinderella was a commoner.
Aug 28, 2012 @ 04:13:57
Ah, Cinderella. August has awesome insight.
Enjoyed this post.
Aug 28, 2012 @ 06:27:44
Ahhh, I love this post. I love it just as much now as I did on August’s blog. Fab teamwork, you two!
Aug 28, 2012 @ 12:44:22
Loved your point of view about Cinderella!
I personally never had a problem with her or the story. She remained true to herself, even though she was abused basically her whole life.
There are plenty of women in this day and age who are trapped in bad situations where they just succumb to ‘that’s the way it is’.
Plus, she was a child ~ which makes it all the more believable that she would just accept her situation as life.
Aug 28, 2012 @ 15:50:47
Definitely a post worth repeating! Thank you ladies!
Aug 29, 2012 @ 19:40:30
I love that interpretation! I never thought of it that way. Although I don’t care for the passive, waiting for prince charming aspect of Cinderella, I have always admired that Cinderella never met evil with evil and performed her duty even if it wasn’t fair. That is strength too.