Tangled is my favorite Disney movie for many reasons besides the wonderful storyline and beautiful imagery. I really relate to Rapunzel in so many ways. I try to be optimistic and see the beauty in the small things in life. I try to stay hopeful and occupy my time with many hobbies. I have so many interests and love learning about them and learning about the world and other cultures. We also share physical features, brown hair and green eyes, and prefer walking outside barefoot. I also have some German heritage, so I relate to her that way as well.

My mother also acts a lot like Mother Gothel. She tells me that I am too insecure, I would never survive in the world on my own, I am too kind and forgiving that the world will destroy me. I am too chubby, too quiet, and too naive for anyone to ever want to date, love, or marry me. She says how she is so much prettier than me and that I am too messy and dress too casually to stand out and have a relationship. My mother says that she knows what is best for me.

This is so similar to what Mother Gothel says to Rapunzel “Sloppy, underdressed,” “Gullible, naïve,” “I see a strong, confident beautiful young lady. Oh look, you’re here, too.” I felt an instant connection to Rapunzel the first time I saw Tangled. My mother loves me, though, and she does so much for me. I have honestly started to feel that I won't be able to find love or live on my own. I know that Rapunzel did leave, so there is still hope for me, but I feel dependent on my mother and want to please her.

I even chose a college major to please her, but it wasn't my dream, and I finally started breaking free like Rapunzel did when she went to chase after her dream of seeing the lanterns and when I switched my major out of healthcare to become an elementary school teacher. I hope one day I can really leave "my tower," find my prince, and have my happily ever after like Rapunzel did. For now I am left, “wondering when will my life begin?”

In the meantime, Rapunzel and Tangled has given me hope and a character that inspires me and I can relate to.

Thank you for being so welcoming and giving me an outlet to feel comfortable enough to share things that are very personal to me.

I hope you have a great rest of the week.