For anyone that's known me longer than 10 minutes, it's no surprise that i like anime. One of my favorites is called Axis Powers Hetalia. For those taht don't know, let me explain: Hetalia is anime that teaches history. Each country of the world is represented by a single person and hold their county's stereotypes. For example, America is a blonde-haired, blued eyed, obnoxious man who loves hamburgers and soda. Watching Hetalia, I've learned about many things that shaped our world's history. These things include the Revolutionary War, Austro-Hungarian empire, World War I, World War II, the Italian Wars, the French Revolution, the fight for the Baltics, Russia's Bloody Sunday, and the Anglo Union between France and the United Kingdom.
But many lessons are taught in Hetalia, ones people don't actively look for. These lessons are found between the lines and each country taught me something different.
Japan-Sometimes silence is better.
Russia-Sometimes the most frightening people have dark skeletons in their closet. Sometimes those people just want a hug.
Liechtenstein-Your siblings can be your biggest heroes.
Switzerland-Do something for someone who can never repay you.
Austria-Having class and dignity are good things.
Sealand-You're only as small as you feel.
Holy Roman Empire-Never miss a chance to tell someone you love them. They could disappear sooner than you think.
Prussia-An over-inflated ego could kill you.
China-Sometimes it's up to you to teach your siblings what's right, even if it hurts.
Germany-Too much structure can be a bad thing.
Italy-It's okay to be afraid. Also, no one in Italy can drive.
Canada-Sometimes the quiet ones are that way because no one takes the time to notice them.
England-Just because someone wrongs you doesn't mean you can't still love them.
America-Take time to notice those around you; Listen to your elders, they usually know what they're talking about.
Ukraine-If you love someone, sometime you have to let them go.
Hungary-Women and frying pans don't always just belong in the kitchen.
++Everyone can get along if they try++
Some of these things Jesus tried to teach us. Do they sound familiar?
So when people say cartoons can't teach you anything, I break out a season of Hetalia, pop it into my DVD player, and show them the life-lessons I've learned from these dramatic people while showing them that the love of Jesus can be found anywhere if you look hard enough.