Snippets of Japan #1: Future Boy Conan
The power of unity & nature
I was a tiny kid when I fell in love with Future Boy Conan. This cartoon series by Hayao Miyazaki & Takahata Isao launched the same year I was born, and it animated the mornings of my childhood, leaving beautiful imprints throughout my life. As I rewatched it recently I could see how a lot of it shaped me.
Future Boy Conan is set in a post-apocalyptic Earth where powerful 'super electromagnetic weapons' have caused most land masses to submerge. The series called attention to the possibility that limitless energy might not satisfy the ambition of those who always want more - a warning message that’s still relevant today. It also pointed us to the capacity to act on behalf of life.
I would forever relive the joy of stepping into a world where adventure meets environmental awareness, with brave and super-human strong Conan, the spirited Lana with her telepathic abilities, and their mischievous little companion, Jimsy. It was foundational for me to venture on this post-apocalyptic journey, with a landscape where nature and technology collide.
I feel grateful for the deep friendship narrative throughout the series, and how it passes the importance of staying committed to our values & world aspirations. Then, I always loved how Conan could use his little toes to hold on to any vehicle or wall, and how the strength of his tiny bones saved his life, and the lives of his friends. And I adored how Lana talked with the birds. While Jimsy was so free-flowing and always ready for adventure. They were some of my childhood heroes. And one of my first deep connections to Japan.
In the remnants of a devastated world, the friendship between Conan and Lana blossoms, pointing to the power of unity and resilience in the face of adversity. Their bond for me symbolized hope, and the unwavering determination to build a better future together.
As they navigate through the lush yet rugged terrain, Future Boy Conan weaves a poignant narrative that underscores the importance of environmental stewardship and harmony with nature. The series points at the fragility of our world and the need to protect it for future generations.
If you haven’t watched it, I invite you to go experience the magic of Future Boy Conan with its tale of courage, friendship, nature, and the enduring spirit of hope in a world striving for renewal.
If you want to come visit the real land of Conan, come join me on the 2024 NAMKHA Trip to Japan! We will be diving into deep connection to the nature, the culture, and exploring our inner connection with ourselves too. All things that support co-creating a beautiful future. Keeping some of that Future Boy Conan hope alive!
