The Disillusionment of Cinderella

Last week I went to the Utah Museum of Fine Arts (Yes, Utah actually has one). There was an exhibit on Cinderella. Versions of the story from other cultures and countries, various antique shoes, representing the glass slipper, portraits of princes and royal families, gorgeous gowns and exquisite mirrors, all with accompanying explanations of their roles in this beloved tale. A tale I have noticed that so many girls, young and not so young, strive for. This thought of such a blissful tale of love and an easily attained happily ever after...I don't want it. But thanks.

Maybe I should explain.....

Take Cinderella's family. Who wants a jealous family? I mean really...I, for one don't want my mother to hate me, banish me to sleep in the cinders, and seek a kinder mother figure in a jolly singing fairy. I don't want sisters who plot my demise and boss me around. No, I think maybe I will keep my supportive mother and silly sisters whom I just adore.

Next...Mice as friends? The last thing I want is to be caught singing to mice merrily in my bedroom. The just screams looney. Yes, I sing, but generally to an audience, all of whom can register the English language in their brains. And my friends, I prefer them tail-less and hopefully will remain unable to teach me to sew or help me with any domestic chores. I adore the friends I have and am pleased to say only a few of them have visible whiskers.

Lastly...Prince Charming? Charming? Maybe. Bright? Not so much. The poor boy didn't even think to ask Cinderella's name at the ball. In a frantic search around his kingdom he never seemed to notice that the girls who tried on the lost shoe didn't look like the girl he danced the night away with. And really, he loves her because she is beautiful? And thats it? What does he expect of her? No, I don't want a man that daft and oblivious. I happily and thankfully take Brandon who asked my name once and has yet to forget it. He knows me, all the good, the bad, the beautiful, the oh so ugly, the smart, the silly, the unknowing, the happy, the sad, the confused, and the joyful...all of it. He knows this, and he loves me. He still knows my face without my shoes on. And I adore him. While still not an expert in marriage, I know that it requires more than charm and beauty. We work hard on a good marriage. We respect each other.

I love the reality that I am living in. I don't need the disillusionment of Cinderella and other fairy tales, I don't need to compare my life to these stories or to other people. I am happy. I love the imperfections, the randomness, and the silly moments. I'm not so worried about the ever after. I am not expecting perfection. I will keep praying for what I've got. Its a beautiful thing.