LIFE

Your favorite animated flicks hold some very valuable lessons about friendship. These cartoon characters might not be just like us, but their feelings and relationships are. Check out the meaningful messages you can take into your own life from these four famous friendships.

Woody and Buzz from Toy Story

These best friends prove not all friends need to be completely alike in order to have a special BFF bond. In fact, Woody and Buzz are very different. Woody is a loving cowboy doll with a sincere heart, while Buzz is a bold space ranger toy with a heroic spirit. Although they might not seem a likely pair, they make a great team when put together. Between Woody and Buzz, it is known that “You’ve Got a Friend in Me.”

What we can learn: BFFs do not have to share the same likes and interests. Sometimes opposites really make for the best pairs. Don’t worry if you and your bestie have different personalities because Buzz and Woody did too and their friendship is forever.

Dory and Marlin from Finding Nemo

When Marlin is in a state of pure sadness and fear, Dory is there to comfort him and lend a helping hand. Although her memory isn't sharp, her heart is big and her mood is always cheerful. Dory’s unwavering support of Marlin gets him through a very tough time in his life and helps him conquer the open ocean to find Nemo. The care these two have for each other makes them more like family.

What we can learn: Dory and Marlin show us the importance of being there for your friends whenever they need you. Marlin may have never found Nemo if it wasn’t for Dory. Her happiness and hopeful demeanor serve as a comfort to worried Marlin, while Marlin’s thoughtfulness and protective behavior serve as security to forgetful Dory.

Sulley and Mike from Monsters, Inc.

Sulley and Mike’s relationship changes when Sulley brings Boo into the picture. Mike is fearful of Boo and her abilities as a human, even though Sulley is very fond of little Boo. Mike refuses to assist Sulley in hiding Boo from the Monster world, but ultimately chooses to help his buddy out. The two form a strong relationship with Boo and redefine Monsters, Inc. completely. Although Mike was hesitant to Sulley’s plans at first, his love and trust for Sulley allow him to make the right decision to stick by his friend’s side.

What we can learn: Best friends don't always need to agree on every idea. But true friends should always be there for encouragement, guidance and friendship. Even if you think your friend is making the wrong decision, hear her thoughts out first. Thinking about a situation in a different way could open up your eyes to the positive aspects of it. Also, just being there to listen to your BFF already shows how much you care.

Lilo and Stitch from Lilo & Stitch

Lilo knows there is something special about Stitch from the moment she sees him at the animal shelter. She believes she is just adopting a dog, but she does not realize that Stitch is actually an alien and would soon become her best friend. Through a series of events that try to tear Lilo and Stitch apart, they find their way back to each other in the end. Lilo and Stitch become the one thing in each other’s lives that neither of them knew they needed.

What we can learn: Friendships will occasionally face hard times. By handling the rough patches and protecting your friendship, you and your BFF can make it through. Lilo and Stitch encounter many situations that could end their friendship, but they know how important they are to each other and that is what keeps them strong. If you and your bestie find yourselves in a tough spot, work to make amends and figure out a way to make your friendship even better than it was before.

Which pair of animated BFFs is your fave? What other lessons can you learn from these cartoon besties? Let us know in the comments below!

Photo credit: Emaze, Disney, YouTube, Lilo and Stitch.

by Megan Holt | 8/2/2016