Many of us grew up watching the animated "Cinderella" that was first released in 1950. However, both the 1950's animated version and the 2015 live action version teach us a lot about the real world and how to treat one another. It’s all about perception, folks!

"Have courage and be kind," a standout statement made by Cinderella herself in the 2015 live action film seemed to cause a commotion. It’s so incredibly true to "Cinderella" viewers of all ages. It’s a great learning opportunity for children as to how you should treat those around you and how you should have the courage to stand up for yourself. It’s also a great reminder to the adult population as well. Sometimes we can get caught up in the whirlwind of life around us and forget to be kind and have courage to continue. Thanks to Cinderella, we can now remember to always have courage and to always be kind.

Cinderella taught us that with dedication, hard work and a good friend you can accomplish anything! Cinderella didn’t give up on her dreams when an evil stepmother and two evil stepsisters tried to ruin her life and her plans. Cinderella kept her chin held high and believed in her dreams and aspirations. Thanks to a little mouse and a few blue birds, Cinderella attended the ball (which she dreamed of attending) in the most beautiful gown in all the land.

Cinderella also teaches us that sometimes you need to assess where you are in your life compared to where you want to be. Cinderella’s iconic name is derived from two pieces, ‘cinder’ (dust, dirt, grim) and Ella (Cinderella’s actual name). You learn something new everyday! When we see Cinderella scrubbing the floors and cleaning the home relentlessly in the first part of the film, it makes sense why the first part of her name is Cinder. However, we clearly know that Cinderella wants to be more than the cleaning daughter. But because Cinderella knew that her life wouldn’t include cleaning forever, she persevered until she was able to go to the ball and meet her Prince Charming.

An old time classic, “If you keep believing the dream that your heart makes will come true.” Don’t lose site of what you’re working towards, whether that is regarding your career, education or personal goals. Once you stop believing, you stop working towards that goal. This is one of the most important and life long teaching moments Cinderella can bring to us. So, next time you’re feeling down or in search of some real world advice…turn on "Cinderella!" You’d be surprised as to how many life lessons you will discover!