Long ago, I watched the movie, The Golden Compass with my son, when he was very little. In it, every child has a daemon – a visible spirit companion that protects, guides, and reflects who they truly are. That idea of a spirit animal stayed with me. I didn’t know it or recognize it then, but my daemon had already found me.
He wasn’t fierce or majestic. He was the kind you hug once, and never want to let go. With big ears always open to listen, a grin that made people feel they belonged, and a twinkle of mischief that kept the child in me alive. He reminded me to play, to believe, and to feel wonder, without reason.
Over the years, I noticed how Disney quietly crept into my world. Little keepsakes, quiet references in conversation – not out of nostalgia, but for connection. For magic.
Mickey Mouse became more than a collectible. He became an anchor. A reminder to ask: Where is the child in me? Who am I when I’m not trying to be anything at all? He brings me back to the part of myself that’s still wide-eyed, open-hearted, and capable of awe. And that joy? I haven’t outgrown it. I’ve grown into it – more consciously, more gratefully.
As adults, we carry weighty roles with pride. But maybe we don’t need less maturity, we just need more love and hugs. We all have our daemon that keeps our light alive. Something that mirrors our spirit.
Mine wears red shorts and yellow shoes. What’s yours?
Stay with me—Part 2 is coming soon.