Navigating the World That Suits You with Wisdom

 

The Power of Personal Change: Navigating the World That Suits You with Wisdom

In the Netflix film "Enola Holmes," the tea-room proprietor, Editha, challenges Sherlock Holmes with a thought-provoking statement: "You don't know what it is to be without power. Politics doesn't interest you because you have no interest in changing a world that suits you so well." This dialogue raises an intriguing question: Is it wise to change the world to fit our own desires and preferences?

While the film primarily focuses on women's empowerment, it delves into the idea of changing the world beyond the realm of politics. The plot revolves around Enola Holmes, who embarks on a mission to rescue a foppish young lord whose life is in danger. Her objective is not merely to save him but also to ensure his vote in passing the Reform Act, which will pave the way for women's suffrage.

Drawing a parallel to Disney's recent adaptation of "Mulan," we see a similar theme. Mulan, too, rejects the societal role assigned to her and ultimately saves the powerful emperor. However, Mulan's victory is confined to a personal level, preserving the system that discriminates against her. This is a recurring trope in many Disney princess movies, where the reward often lies in staying alive and marrying a prince. However, there is a shift in recent portrayals, with young female protagonists having the power to challenge and dismantle oppressive systems, as seen in characters like Jennifer Lawrence's Katniss Everdeen in "The Hunger Games" and Shailene Woodley's Tris Prior in "Divergent."

The question arises: Do children raised on these stories grow up with the determination to change the world? While the impact of these narratives on young minds is debatable, one real-life revolutionary role model stands out: Greta Thunberg. In the documentary "I Am Greta," the teen activist expresses her experiences and aspirations, stating, "Everything I've experienced over these last few months is like being in a dream, or a movie." Greta, a disempowered individual with a deep desire to change a world that doesn't suit her, shares similarities with Enola Holmes, albeit without the jiu-jitsu skills.

It is essential to recognize the power of individuals who strive to transform the world to align with their values and beliefs. While it may seem self-serving to some, it can also lead to positive change and progress. By reshaping the world to suit their own aspirations, these individuals challenge the status quo and inspire others to question and challenge societal norms.

However, it is important to strike a balance between personal desires and the collective well-being. Changing the world solely to accommodate one's immediate needs may neglect the broader social context and the impact on others. Wise change involves considering the consequences of our actions and striving for a world that benefits not only ourselves but also those around us.

The question of whether it is wise to change the world that suits us raises intriguing possibilities. While fictional narratives portray individuals who challenge oppressive systems, their impact on real-life change remains uncertain. Nevertheless, we can find inspiration in real-life role models like Greta Thunberg, who passionately works to reshape the world according to her convictions. It is crucial to navigate the complexities of change with wisdom, ensuring that our actions consider the broader societal implications. By embracing a balanced approach, we can aspire to create a world that not only suits our individual aspirations but also promotes equality, justice, and progress for all.