Antonio

 

**Spoiler Alert: Encanto**

 

“I just watched Encanto. I know it’s crazy, but something about the main character made me think of you the whole time.”

 

Such was the text that I received from a friend last week…along with three other recommendations that I watch Encanto because it’s such a good movie.

 

And it IS a good movie.

 

Before watching, not only had I received the recommendations and comparisons, but I had also read an article on one of the movie’s characters, Luisa, whose gift was strength. It was a beautiful article on how many of us try to be strong in an effort to prove ourselves and be of worth to other people, when inside we are tired, afraid, weak, and breaking.

 

And so I went into the movie expecting to connect to Maribel, the main character, or Luisa, whose story I can relate to. As the movie began and other gifts unfolded, I thought maybe I’d connect to Isabela, who felt the need to always be perfect, or Bruno, who we’re not supposed to talk about, but who left the family because he couldn’t handle his gift.

 

But the connections didn’t happen.

 

Don’t get me wrong. I didn’t find fault in the characters, especially in Maribel. I admired her ability to see things as they were, to do things on her own, to listen to the hearts of people, to accept responsibility for her family, to speak truth, to extend forgiveness, and to stay positive and believe in herself even when she hadn’t been given a gift. She is a solid character. And I like her.

 

But I didn’t connect with her or any of the expected characters on a gut-wrenchingly deep level or become obsessed with any of them to the point of researching them after the movie—which is often what happens when I see a movie—except for…Antonio, the five-year-old, who I think may be the cutest character that Disney has ever created.

 

The beginning of the movie centered around Antonio receiving his gift. Nervous that he wouldn’t receive a gift like Maribel, he was extremely anxious about the gift ceremony. On the day of the ceremony, he hid under the bed in the nursery that he shared with Maribel, and he only came out after Maribel encouraged him, snuggled with him, and gave him a stuffed jaguar for courage. On the night of the ceremony, he wouldn’t approach his door without Maribel beside him. He looked at her, held out his hand, and said, “I need you.”

 

Antonio’s fervent plea touched me. At five-years-old, he knew that he didn’t have the strength to face what scared him. He didn’t try to put on a brave face and go at it alone. Instead, he reached for help from the one person he believed in most.

 

Yes. Maribel was that person. Yes. She was brave, steadfast, and true. And I am honored that someone thinks of me that way. But Antonio is the one who asked for help…and for some reason…right now…Antonio is the one who resonates with me most.

 

What about you? Who do you resonate with most?  

 

Dear God: When we are scared and feel alone, give us the wisdom to see the truth of those around us—the truth that our people love us—and grant us the humility and courage to ask for help. Amen.