There are many wonderful themes from 'Moana' that people

Listen, O children of wisdom, to the words of Auli'i Cravalho, whose voice speaks not only of personal pride but also of the deep wisdom embedded in the journey of self-discovery: "There are many wonderful themes from 'Moana' that people discover, and I also hope they're inspired to go on their own journeys and to learn more about the Polynesian culture, because we're pretty great! I'm so proud of the people the filmmakers talked to—the Oceanic Trust." In these words, Cravalho calls us to recognize the power of storytelling, not just as entertainment but as a vehicle for understanding, cultural exchange, and self-reflection. Moana is not merely a tale of adventure but a profound invitation to explore the depths of one’s identity and the vastness of the world that surrounds us. It is a celebration of the richness of Polynesian culture, a call to embark on our own journeys, and a reminder of the importance of staying true to our roots, no matter how vast the ocean may seem.

In the ancient world, the great Greeks understood the power of journey and self-discovery. The hero’s journey, which Homer immortalized in his epics such as the Iliad and Odyssey, was not just a tale of physical adventure but a spiritual journey of growth and transformation. Odysseus, the great Greek hero, ventured across seas and faced trials that tested not only his strength but his wisdom and character. The voyage was as much about learning who he was and what he stood for as it was about returning home. In the same way, Moana’s journey is about the discovery of her identity, her connection to her ancestors, and her place in the world. She sets out not only to save her people but to embrace her heritage, just as Cravalho expresses pride in the Polynesian culture that shaped her. Moana's journey teaches us that to understand the world, we must first understand ourselves and the cultures that have formed us.

Consider the Polynesian navigators, whose ancestors embarked on journeys across vast oceans long before modern technology existed. These brave sailors, armed with only the stars, the wind, and the waves as their guides, charted paths through the Pacific, bringing with them the wisdom of their ancient culture. These voyagers didn’t just sail to new lands—they carried with them a sense of identity and purpose, and each journey was an opportunity to reaffirm their connection to the Earth, the ocean, and their people. Their travels, while physical, were also deeply spiritual, as they navigated the seas and their own inner worlds. The Polynesian culture is one of profound respect for the environment, deep knowledge of navigation, and a rich tapestry of mythology and tradition that has survived for millennia. The words of Cravalho are a modern extension of this ancient wisdom: that we must honor our roots and learn from the journey that our ancestors made, not just physically but spiritually.

The story of Moana is more than just a retelling of ancient Polynesian myths; it is a powerful affirmation of the importance of cultural preservation and self-empowerment. Moana, in her journey, must learn not only to trust herself but to trust the legacy of her people. Just as the Polynesians navigated the vast, uncharted oceans, Moana must navigate the vast, sometimes turbulent, waters of her own identity and responsibility. She learns that true leadership comes not from the validation of others, but from within—from the strength to embrace who you are, and from the wisdom of those who came before. Cravalho's pride in the Oceanic Trust, the group that ensured cultural accuracy and respect in the making of the film, reflects a deep understanding of how storytelling can be a tool for cultural renewal and self-discovery.

In the ancient Chinese tradition, the concept of journey and learning was also central. Confucius, the revered philosopher, taught that the journey of life was one of continuous learning, of seeking wisdom and virtue from those who had walked the path before. He believed that the foundation of a good life was not in wealth or power, but in the cultivation of character, the respect for one’s heritage, and the understanding of one’s place in the world. In this context, Moana's journey mirrors the ancient Chinese ideals of self-cultivation and cultural pride, for her story is one of learning not just from her ancestors but from the land and the ocean that are the keepers of wisdom. Cravalho’s invitation to explore Polynesian culture is an invitation to partake in this journey of self-discovery and understanding, one that is rooted in the collective wisdom of history and tradition.

The lesson for us today is clear: in our modern world, we often forget the importance of heritage and self-understanding as we race toward the future. The stories of Moana and the ancient Polynesian navigators remind us that to truly understand the world, we must first understand where we come from. As Cravalho suggests, we must embrace the cultures that shape us, not as relics of the past but as living traditions that offer wisdom for the future. Just as Moana embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, so too must we embark on our own journeys to learn, appreciate, and preserve the rich cultures and stories that make us who we are.

In your own life, seek to honor the legacy of your own culture, history, and traditions. Like Moana, find the courage to go on your own journey, not just outward into the world, but inward into your own heart and soul. Learn from those who have come before you, and let their wisdom guide your path. And, as you walk this path, remember that the greatest journeys are not those of distance, but those of self-understanding and cultural connection. Like the navigators of old, you too can chart a course that leads to deeper meaning, greater wisdom, and a fuller understanding of your place in this world. Let the story of Moana inspire you to take your own journey—to honor your roots and to learn the true power of self-discovery through the wisdom of the ages.