(car thoughts)

Pokémon is a nostalgic reminder of a simpler time in my life. A time when I dreamt with a wild imagination and play-acted the ideals of compassion, perseverance, and ambition. It was easy as a 7-year-old to imagine a world where I was living as Ash Ketchum. Now, as an adult, I find living out the ideals of compassion, perseverance, and ambition can be difficult and wearisome at times. The world can seem cruel at times, how does one keep purity of heart to operate in the fullness of our calling as humans?

Every episode of Pokémon is predictable, which makes sense since it is kids show and follows a set formula. Some may find this boring, perhaps even annoying. However, is it possible the predictability can be comforting adults, too? Yes, Ash will encounter barriers; Yes, team rocket will attack him; Yes, Ash will struggle in the constant education of how to be a good trainer. Through the series, in every episode, he overcomes barriers, defeats evil, and grows in his humanity to improve relationship with his teammates and to lead his Pokémon with greater competency. It is written in the theme song, “Our courage will pull us through, you teach me, and I’ll teach you”.

In life, one encounters difficulties which feel impossible considering the resources at hand. But God has equipped His people with the team and resources required to fight evil in the world. We adapt, evolve thinking and behavior, and learn new skills for the next battle. Never grow weary of doing good and pushing onward to next challenge. Death of imagination is not a prerequisite to adulthoods, there is a choice offered to keep, embrace, and use imagination to dream of a better future.

Perhaps you think my writing seems idealistic or fanciful, however, I do believe purity of heart can persist into adulthood, even though cultivation of imagination takes greater intention. Through trials and exhaustion, the satisfaction of completing something “great” – conquering a barrier or achieving a goal – brings about an exuberance like that of 10-year-old Ash winning against a gym leader. Purity of heart encourages celebration for living into the ideals of what makes humanity great. Today, may each of us celebrate the present challenges and face them with courage and joy.

Every challenge along the way
With courage, I will face
I will battle every day
To claim my rightful place
Come with me, the time is right
There’s no better team
Arm in arm, we’ll win the fight
It’s always been our dream

Pokémon Theme Song