Freedom and Its Consequences

Summary

In this Independence Day reflection, Fr. Mike Schmitz explores the theme of freedom through the lens of 'The Little Mermaid.' He contrasts the modern notion of freedom as 'license' with the true meaning of freedom as 'the power to do what I ought,' highlighting the responsibility that accompanies it. Using Ariel's story, he discusses the consequences of choices and emphasizes the importance of making decisions that matter, as they reflect our value and impact the world around us.

Takeaways

• 🎬 The video is a discussion by Fr. Mike Schmitz on Ascension Presents about the concept of freedom, using 'The Little Mermaid' as a metaphor.
• 🇺🇸 The video is released or viewed around Independence Day, a celebration of the United States' independence from Great Britain.
• 🎭 Fr. Mike highlights the difference between 'license', the idea of doing whatever one wants, and true freedom, which involves responsibility.
• 🌊 He critiques 'The Little Mermaid' for portraying Ariel's disobedience without consequences, suggesting it teaches a flawed lesson about freedom.
• 🧙‍♂️ Fr. Mike references Saint John Paul II's definition of freedom as 'the power to do what I ought', emphasizing the link between freedom and responsibility.
• 👑 Ariel, as the princess of the sea, is shown to have everything she wants but disobeys her father, King Triton, to pursue her desires.
• 🤝 Ariel's actions result in a deal with Ursula the Sea Witch, leading to a series of events that nearly cost her father his kingdom.
• 🚫 Despite the dire consequences of her actions for others, Ariel faces no personal repercussions and gets what she wants in the end.
• 📚 Fr. Mike contrasts the Disney version with Hans Christian Andersen's original story, where Ariel's freedom leads to a tragic end.
• 💭 The video encourages viewers to reflect on the true meaning of freedom and the importance of making choices that align with responsibility.
• 🌟 It concludes with a reminder that everyone's choices have consequences and that recognizing this is a powerful truth to live by.

Q & A

Who is the speaker in the video script?

The speaker in the video script is Fr. Mike Schmitz.

What topic does Fr. Mike Schmitz discuss in the video?

Fr. Mike Schmitz discusses the concept of freedom, using the story of The Little Mermaid as a reference point.

What day is being referred to as Independence Day in the script?

The Fourth of July is referred to as Independence Day in the script, which is the day the United States celebrates its independence from Great Britain.

How does Fr. Mike Schmitz differentiate between 'freedom' and 'license'?

Fr. Mike Schmitz explains that 'freedom' is not just the ability to do whatever one wants ('license'), but rather the power to do what one ought to do, with the understanding that it comes with responsibility.

What is the main critique of The Little Mermaid's story according to Fr. Mike Schmitz?

Fr. Mike Schmitz critiques that The Little Mermaid uses her freedom for license, doing whatever she wants without consequences, which he views as a flawed representation of true freedom.

What does Fr. Mike Schmitz suggest is the problem with Ariel's actions in The Little Mermaid?

The problem with Ariel's actions is that she disobeys her father and makes a deal with Ursula without considering the consequences for herself and others, which goes against the idea of true freedom rooted in responsibility.

What is the alternative ending to The Little Mermaid story mentioned by Fr. Mike Schmitz?

The alternative ending mentioned is from Hans Christian Andersen's original version, where Ariel becomes sea foam and has to spend a year for every tear a child cries throughout the world.

What does Fr. Mike Schmitz believe is the powerful truth about freedom?

Fr. Mike Schmitz believes that the powerful truth about freedom is that it comes with the responsibility of understanding that one's choices have consequences, and that one is not free to choose the consequences of those choices.

How does Fr. Mike Schmitz connect the concept of freedom to the moral agency of individuals?

He connects the concept of freedom to moral agency by stating that as moral agents, individuals have the power to make choices that matter and come with consequences, emphasizing the importance of making good choices.

What message does Fr. Mike Schmitz want to convey on Independence Day regarding freedom?

Fr. Mike Schmitz wants to convey the message that Independence Day is a day to act in true freedom, understanding the power to do what one ought to do and acknowledging the consequences of one's actions.

What is Fr. Mike Schmitz's final recommendation regarding the movie The Little Mermaid?

Fr. Mike Schmitz's final recommendation is to watch The Little Mermaid, acknowledging it as a fun movie, but also to consider the deeper lessons about freedom and responsibility.