Kung Fu Panda guides me like a Shaman into my Thirties
Having bid farewell to my twenties, being on the cusp of turning thirty in a few months, I’ve been reflecting on questions that haunted me as a socially reclusive, “in-my-own head” kind of child. Who am I, and what is the purpose underlying my existence? Does an intrinsic, self shape my identity, or am I merely a product of my surroundings, culture, and life experiences?
Lately, I’ve found myself increasingly entangled in these thoughts. Perhaps it’s because I’ve been nurturing a closer connection with my inner-world through writing and drawing. It’s as if I’m stepping into what Carl Jung referred to as the “second half” of life. During this phase, I grapple with reconciling mortality, seeking significance in existence, and comprehending the unique role I play in the broader tapestry of the world around me.
Grappling with these thoughts leads to a sense of detachment from the everyday. The ordinary rhythms of life, which encompass everything from forming and maintaining connections, working on my marriage with my wife and fulfilling professional duties, seems to intersect with the contemplations that occupy my mind. I project an air of distraction, characterized by heightened anxiety and an underlying sense of restlessness.
What do I turn to, when I am gripped with existential terrors? Entangled by these harrowing questions that have no conceivable answers?
Kung Fu Panda. Not born out of a life long adoration, but a movie that I coincidently stumbled upon once again in my adult life. There was a time in my life where I thought a movie would never make me cry. It would have been out of this world to think a children’s cartoon would have a teary effect on me. Yet I found myself touched deeply by this goofy animation, to the point of shedding tears.
The story of Kung Fu Panda is as typical (on the surface) as they come. Po finds himself in the mundane, ordinary world, feeling as though his life in the noodle shop is lacking. He dreams of a life outside of the ordinary, one filled with adventure, excitement and Kung Fu. He is then literally thrust into a call to adventure, his ordinary world disrupted by his calling as the Dragon Warrior- the chosen one who will defeat Tai Lung and bring peace to the valley. He bursts forth into the Kung Fu world, where he faces challenges, makes allies, enemies and mentors. Po embarks on the heroes journey, growing, training and ultimately facing Tai Lung in the final showdown, fulfilling his destiny.
The heroes journey is a popular story format. So popular that it often feels played out. But what makes Po’s journey so special (and maybe so touching to me) is that it is a story that grapples with self-identity and purpose. Po undergoes a heroes’ journey that not only resolves a physical problem in the external world, but goes through an inner journey of reconciling with the Self.
“You don’t belong here” and Self-belief
Po’s journey epitomizes that of imposter syndrome, feeling out of place in his calling.
After being chosen as the dragon warrior by Master Oog-way, Po grapples with self-doubt in his own abilities, especially in comparison to the Furious Five. Pandas are clumsy, cuddly and not meant to fight- an insecurity that Po wrestles with. Plagued by this, Po feels that he is an accident and his calling illegitimate. His belonging as a Kung Fu Warrior is called into question and his identity as the Dragon Warrior becomes a subject of scrutiny and self-doubt.
However, Po’s journey is characterized by learning how to belief in himself. Through his trials and tribulations, Po discovers that being the Dragon Warrior transcends physical prowess; it hinges on believing in oneself. This revelation takes shape when he finds out his father’s secret ingredient to his noodle soup. In this moment of realization, Po learns that authenticity and self belief are the true essence of his identity as the Dragon Warrior. His transformation is from self-doubt to self belief.
Embracing one’s true identity
Embracing one’s true identity and purpose is a universal theme that resonates with many individuals as they navigate the complexities of life. Po’s journey in “Kung Fu Panda” serves as a powerful metaphor for the inner struggles we all face in discovering who we are and what our unique roles are in the world.
The notion of self-identity is something that has fascinated philosophers, psychologists, and thinkers for centuries. It’s a puzzle that has no definitive answer, and the search for one’s identity can be a lifelong quest. As I approach my thirties, I’ve come to appreciate that the journey of self-discovery is not a linear path. It’s often filled with twists, turns, and moments of self-doubt, much like Po’s journey in the movie.
In a world that often places immense pressure on individuals to conform to societal norms and expectations, it’s easy to experience feelings of inadequacy or impostor syndrome. Po’s initial belief that he doesn’t belong in the world of Kung Fu reflects the way many of us question our place in our chosen fields, relationships, or communities. We wonder if we are truly deserving of our roles or if we’re simply pretending to be something we’re not.
However, Po’s transformation through his hero’s journey serves as a reminder that self-belief is a powerful catalyst for personal growth and success. It’s not about being the strongest or the most skilled; it’s about recognizing and embracing one’s true self. Po’s realization that the secret ingredient to his father’s noodle soup is “nothing” is a profound moment of clarity. It signifies that authenticity, being true to oneself, is the most potent ingredient in the recipe of life.
This concept of authenticity resonates deeply with my own introspective journey. As I reflect on my past and present, I see moments where I, too, have grappled with self-doubt and a sense of not fitting in. It’s a common human experience to question our worth and abilities. Yet, like Po, we have the capacity to discover our identity and purpose.
Existing in the tension of paradox
What I love most about Kung Fu Panda is its exploration of contradiction and how opposites often compliment each other in harmony. It seems to mirror my own journey of realization that the contrasting aspects of my life have shape who I am.
Po is, at a glance, not a Kung Fu Warrior. Compared to the Furious Five, a group of high skilled and disciplined Kung warriors, Po is the complete opposite of Kung Fu prowess. He’s fat, lazy and clumsy.
But as the story unfolds, Po takes a new approach to Kung Fu. He uses food related techniques and brings his own unique perspectives. His sense of humor and goofiness provides for him resilience and a creative perspective, complimenting the rigid discipline of the Furious Five.
Another prevalent contrast is one of inner and outer strength. Po initially believes that what makes a true Kung Fu warrior is physical strength and combat skills. However, as his journey progress, Po realizes that inner strength is the key that unlocks his potential as the Dragon Warrior. Self-belief and authenticity become more important for him than strength and combat skills. It indicates that the other half of external strength- inner strength- is just as valuable, if not more so.
It’s incredible how a good story can uplift the spirits, shed new perspectives and imbue meaning into our lives. But even more than that, I think Kung Fu Panda was able to help me reflection on my own journey in life. Moving into my 30s, I feel the burdens of commitment, family, career and relationships. Despite this, I’m inspired by beautiful tales, teaching me create harmony, believe in my self and fight for a fulfilling existence. My 30s might be a call to adventure, one that beckons me to live authentically to my true identity.
