If only she knew
If only she knew the true nature of humanity that we all know so well and are quite familiar with. Human nature that despite the beautiful things we are capable of, we are equally capable of the darkest, most terrible, ugliest behavior possible.
If only she knew as she was longing to have feet and to be with the human world. To leave her own people and the protection of her father and family to chase after an unknown world. If only Princess Ariel of Little Mermaid knew.
If only she knew about the multi-faceted and triple planetary crisis caused by human nature and their wants. That beyond the dancing, running, skipping, and walking where people are, that beyond the happiness and greatness she longs are amongst other wildfires, flooding, sea-level rise, and extreme climate and weather-related events.
If only she knew about the ocean that she calls home which is getting warmer and warmer due to human action. That the corals they are meant to protect are dying from extreme heat due to rising temperatures. That species going extinct in her home is due to overfishing, nuclear testing, and unsustainable use of the ocean.
If only she knew about gender inequity when she was complaining about daughters being reprimanded after her father told her off. The challenges women face in different parts of the world in education, civil rights and much more.
If only she knew that despite the goodness in humans, they are also capable of such things. If only someone told her about it.
Oh wait! Someone did, her father did. Just like the alarm about these issues are being sounded at the moment.
Oh well!
If only she listened.