Hear the Roar

I used to believe no movie was worth watching more than once—time is a scarce commodity, after all. Then I had a child. That rule didn’t just bend—it shattered. My son’s early obsession with The Lion King meant I watched it again and again (and again). But over time, I stopped minding. With its unforgettable music, stunning animation, and heartfelt story about identity, courage, and leadership, The Lion King turned out to be more than just a movie.

Now that my child is grown, I’ve happily reinstated my one-time viewing rule—except for The Lion King. That one gets a lifetime pass!

Pride Lands Lessons
The Lion King tells the story of Simba, a lion cub destined to be king of Pride Lands. His father, Mufasa, is more than a powerful ruler—he’s a mentor who teaches Simba that true leadership isn’t about dominance; it’s about responsibility and heart. “Everything the light touches is our kingdom,” Mufasa tells him—not as a claim of control, but as a call to care for and protect it.

When Mufasa is killed in a plot by his jealous brother Scar, a devastated Simba blames himself and flees. Scar seizes the throne and rules through fear, selfishness, and neglect. Under his reign, the once-flourishing Pride Lands fall into decay.

Meanwhile, Simba grows up far from home with new friends, embracing the carefree motto Hakuna Matata—“no worries.” But when his childhood friend Nala finds him and tells him how Scar has devastated their homeland, Simba must confront his past. Guided by the spirit of his father—who reminds him, “You are more than what you have become”—Simba returns to reclaim his place. He faces his fears, challenges injustice, and learns that being king means rising to the moment with courage, humility, and heart.

Lessons for Today
Simba’s story mirrors a path many of us walk. We grow, we stumble, and sometimes we run from what’s hard. But eventually, something—or someone—calls us back to ourselves. Mufasa’s words, “You are more than what you have become,” become a reminder: becoming who we’re meant to be takes courage—and it starts with showing up.

That message stretches far beyond the screen. In our homes, communities, and daily choices, real leadership isn’t about ego or perfection. It’s about standing for what’s right, lifting others when they falter, and leading with love.

As Mufasa wisely says, “While others search for what they can take, a true king searches for what he can give.” It’s a reminder that leadership is rooted in generosity, service, and character. Power fades; character lasts.

This Father’s Day
This Father’s Day let’s celebrate the Mufasas—the fathers and father figures who led by example and taught us to live with integrity. For many, it’s also a time to reflect on the truth that fathers, like all people, are not perfect. They may have stumbled or struggled to express what they felt—but even imperfect efforts can leave a lasting mark when they come from a place of love.

And let’s remember the fathers we’ve lost—not with silence, but with gratitude. Because, like Mufasa in the stars, they are still part of us.

Their lessons still shine.

Happy reading,

Suzanne Daniels

Enjoy the weekend!

Best,
Suzanne
Suzanne Daniels, Ph.D.
AEPC President
P.O. Box 1416
Birmingham, MI 48012
Office: (248) 792-2187
Email: [email protected]