Lessons from the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
Remember when Will, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, got his life flipped-turned upside down? Let’s take a look at how he handled the situation, and perhaps learn a few lessons as to how he became The Prince of Bel-Air, during a time of transition.
He starts his story with his humble beginnings in west Philadelphia. There was an altercation that became the turning point in his life. The fight he got into on the playground caused his mother trepidation. So she sent him to live with his auntie and uncle in Bel-Air.
Now, let us take a look at his new life in transition. Granted his basic needs were well taken care of, he was now living amongst the wealthy. He had food and shelter. His safety needs were met. He was with family, so let’s say he had a sense of love and belonging, although he did not always fit in with the lifestyle of a family with means above and beyond what he had grown accustomed to. And continuing up Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, he had incredible self-esteem, which remained intact. And finally, he may have been challenged the most with self-actualization, but this is where he showcased himself the most!
What do we learn from Will? We learn that no matter what circumstances present to us, we always have the opportunity to shine, to do our best, to be our true selves. His family, of Bel-Air, lived an entirely different lifestyle. Each family member, well, maybe except for Ashley who seemed most impressionable by Will and his way of being, but mostly, the family tried at every turn to get him to conform to new norms, their culture, the rules they lived by, to the values they aspired for their family, and to the goals and aspirations set forth for the children.
Will held true to himself. He approached his new life with openness and self-assuredness. Look at the ending lyrics to see how he arrived to behold his new life. As he pulled up to the house he raps, “I looked at my kingdom, I was finally there, to sit on my throne as The Prince of Bel-Air.” He arrived with a knowing that his kingdom was with him. He adjusted to his new life and lifestyle in Bel-Air. Perhaps the life lesson in the TV series was not for him, but for his family who was also challenged with his presence and demeanor.
In any event, when faced with times of transition, remain true to who you are, continue to strive for what you desire in life. Make sure you are doing things that enable you to feel good about yourself; self-care is always warranted, no matter what the times may bring us. Connect often with loved ones, friends, co-workers, and acquaintances. A smile or nod to a stranger will help you to feel good and it may just warm the heart of the stranger as well. Be safe, and maintain your wellness.
A physical shift in circumstances is not as daunting as it seems. Take lessons from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and arrive each day, sit on your throne, and be self-assured that no matter what comes your way, you have what it takes to thrive!