Why we all need a little Mushu in our lives

Ever since the first time I watched Mulan, I was hooked by Mushu's charisma. That cheeky little dragon, with sharp humor and personality, not only made me laugh, but also left a mark. It's no wonder that I still say his lines every day. Mushu has become my weekly companion, someone who reminds me that, even with our imperfections, we can make a difference. He is more than a cartoon character, he is that friend that we would love to have by our side when we face challenges and problems.

What makes Mushu so special is precisely the fact that he is not a traditional hero. Unlike the great warriors or spiritual guides we often see in movies, Mushu is small, noisy, and, honestly, full of ulterior motives. He wants to help Mulan, but he is also there trying to restore his own reputation as a guardian. Even with these very human flaws, we can't help but root for him. Maybe it's because we see a little of ourselves in him—that side that, even though it's not the bravest or noblest, still tries to do good.

This “unlikely hero” aspect is what makes Mushu so memorable. He is the friend who improvises, who finds a way, and who is present even when everything seems uncertain. How many times in life do we feel this way? I have found myself trying to find a way, improvising when circumstances were far from ideal. Mushu is a reminder that courage can come from the most unexpected sources, and that sometimes just being there for someone is an act of heroism.

Another trait that makes Mushu stand out is his humor. He is sarcastic, spontaneous, and says what he thinks, especially in moments when everything seems to go wrong. He's the type of character that brings lightness amid chaos. Who doesn't have that friend who cracks a joke in the most tense moments? I've found myself laughing at difficult situations, and this humor is exactly what helps to give a new and lighter perspective. The laugh he causes is also a reminder that, even in adversity, you can find reasons to smile.

But Mushu isn't just a comic relief—his loyalty to Mulan is one of his most endearing characteristics. Despite his flaws and jokes, he is always by her side, ready to help in any way he can. Even when his plans to regain his honor spiral out of control, he remains faithful to his mission to help Mulan. This loyalty reminds us that sometimes the most valuable friends are not the perfect ones, but the ones who, despite everything, stay.

Deep down, I think what makes Mushu so remarkable is this silliness. He doesn't try to be a legendary dragon and he isn't a perfect example of virtue. He is just himself, flaws and all, but with a great deal of sincerity and effort. It resonates because life is full of moments when you feel small in the face of big challenges. Mushu reminds us that even the smallest figures can have an immense impact, and it is precisely this authenticity, this way of accepting and embracing our own flaws, that makes us special.

Having a little Mushu in our daily lives is a relief for the soul. He teaches us to laugh at ourselves, to improvise when the path is uncertain, and to keep moving forward, even when we are afraid. For me, he is the best sidekick Disney has ever created, because his impact goes beyond laughter. He reminds us that being imperfect is also a quality, and that loyalty and courage can come from the most unlikely places.

With a touch of Mushu in our hearts—that mix of humor, loyalty, and boldness—our journeys become lighter and, certainly, funnier.