4 things to transform your life

In the story of Howl’s Moving Castle, a movie by Hayao Miyazaki, without spoiling too much the leading lady is Sophie, who after an unfortunate mishap, transforms into an old lady. She then meets Howl, a magician by trade. Together their adventures cross both the boundaries of time and dimension. The morals come heavy and deep, disguised within a fairytale of a girl cursed and the man who comes to save her, and have many takeaways for us living in the real world.  

1. You can not only shape your own destiny, but that of others as well.

It shows a lot about the power of women have in themselves. In this case, Sophie is able to not only fend for herself, but helps Howl realise the potential of his life. If she were to be studying a particular course, she would have taken anthropology (psychology, sociology and other social sciences), wherein the study of culture and of humans would help her understand people more.

The understanding of human behaviour has advantages far beyond that of commerce and economics. It informs the evolution and growth of the whole human race.

2. Forgive, but don’t forget

The Witch of the Waste, who curses Sophie soon becomes unseated from her position of power and seeks Sophie’s help.

Sophie forgives her despite what she did and the once-villain even assists the good guys. This villain could be morphed into that of a collegiate metaphor of dealing with nasty classmates and lecturers. Sophie, in her studies, must learn to forgive them. She also must be able to develop the skill that would enable her to differentiate and be cautious of who is worthy of her trust. Her strength and understanding of human behaviour and culture will empower her further in her endeavor throughout her higher learning and for the rest of her life.

3.  Magic comes from within

Despite not having any innate magical ability, Sophie’s charm and wit – her magic – comes from within. She uses it to assist Howl in beating the onslaught of henchmen coming after him.

What we know and have experienced can make a difference in others. Just like how Sophie breaks away from the norm that in many cases can be the shackles that restrain imagination and abilities, she inspires other young girls in her area to do the same.

4. Every burden, once broken into little pieces, becomes manageable

When Sophie enters Howl’s domain, his moving castle is barely able to function. Once she splits up the tasks they are able to not only bring the castle back to its former glory but also head towards a great adventure.

Every madness has a method. There are many ways and means of getting things done. Sometimes all it needs is some organisation – and maybe a woman at the helm!

Women can take the seat of power and rule just as men can.  Some of these women include the first ever head of state, Sirimavo Bandaranaike of Sri Lanka, Indira Gandhi, daughter of Nehru but more importantly, India’s first Prime Minister, Corazon Aquino, first woman President of the Philippines, and our very own Malaysian astrophysicist Mazlan Othman!

So to all you young women out there, go forth and be spectacular!