I used to admire Cinderella for her hair. Her golden locks always twisted elegantly into an elaborate chignon that made me think she was the most beautiful girl in the world. I also remember her dress. Sparkles bedazzled her from head to toe in her ocean blue gown. However, I do not remember much else, not her character, the dreary circumstances she faced, just her dress and hair.

It is unfortunate that she is most well known by young children, including me, for her beauty. As I grew older I realized the challenging circumstance she faced. Both her parents died at a young age, and she did not have many role models apart from her wicked stepmother. It is surprising that she did not turn out to be a hate-driven, angry girl, like her step sisters.

She continued to believe in herself, and strive for a better life, even though her step mother continuously tried to convince her that it would not be possible. When she went to the ball, she was not just looking for a handsome man, she was looking for a chance. A chance to escape her family, through marriage. Looking at her story from a different lens I now realize that she was actually quite intelligent.

In all, I believe that Cinderella was not only pretty, she was strong-willed, perseverent and wise. Against all odds, she found her happily ever after and it is for these reasons why I admire her.

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