“Hakuna Matata” – Timon and Pumbaa

If you were born in the 90’s or after you’ll more than likely have watched The Lion King.

When I was younger, I didn’t realise the messages running through the movie and the lessons it teaches.

Lesson 1: The Circle of Life

Right at the very beginning, the song “Circle of Life” by Elton John plays through our speakers.

It’s message right from the off; everything that is born must die and to keep the circle alive, we must pass our genes onto the next generation.

And if you didn’t pick up on it straight away, the message gets hammered home when Mufasa dies.

Lesson 2: Everything Happens for a Reason

When Mufasa is killed a sequence of events happen that leads to Simba defeating Scar and taking back pride rock.

If Scar hadn’t killed Mufasa would Simba be enough of a leader to take care of pride rock? It’s a question we’ll never know the answer to however, that event created many challenges for Simba to overcome and learn from.

“Grow yourself bigger than the challenges you face”

Lesson 3: Hakuna Matata

Hakuna Matata is Swahili for “there are no worries”. Timon and Pumbaa teach Simba the phrase, after Simba runs away from home.

I believe there is a doubling meaning here; the first, is to forget the past – it cannot be changed, don’t worry about the future – it may never happen, concentrate on this moment right now becasue it is all we have.

The second meaning is; happiness is a choice. You can choose to be happy and focus on what you do have rather than what you don’t.

Summary

I would recommend every child watches The Lion King but I’m probably bias becasue I do love animals!

Hopefully you’ve enjoyed this post and it’s inspired you to watch The Lion King.

Have a great day

Joe