Unknown Happen Stance

Chapter 28: An Example Of Mindful Perspective Taking

Jane's Reflectional Anti-Belittling Outdoor Hobby Group
"Man, so glad I have such a turnout," Jane sighed, glancing around at the gathered students in the colorful part of the garden. The sunlight filtered through the leaves creating a lively backdrop for her reflection meeting. She had poured her heart into preparing for this, determined to teach students how to break free from the cycle of self-doubt and belittlement she had once been trapped in herself.

With Princess Mal, Chad Charming, Carlos, Doug, and Happy's son among the attendees, Jane's chest tightened with both excitement and a hint of vulnerability. This was more than just a meeting; it was personal. She cleared her throat and stood tall ready to impart her hard-earned wisdom.

"Now let the reflection meeting begin. First, let's define what belittling is officially, according to the dictionary." Jane began, writing the definition in chalk on the board she had set up. "That definition is to paint someone or someone's work as less or inferior, which in turn lessens the authority, dignity and reputation of whoever you are belittling."

As she spoke, her thoughts drifted to the harsh lessons of her own upbringing. "My mother, Fairy Godmother, did it to me two years back when she was strict about magic being in the books, and not the spell books. She wasn't completely wrong, but her delivery made me doubt myself."

She took a deep breath, her heart racing. "Mal, when you came here, you opened my eyes. Before we delve deeper into these reflections, I'd like you to come up here. I have something personal to say to our new Princess of Auradon."

Mal stepped forward, a mix of curiosity and concern in her eyes. As Jane looked into Mal's gaze, memories flooded back—times she had felt lonely, all while harboring resentment towards the girl who had once reached out to her.

"I want to sincerely apologize, Mal. I was such a jerk to you after you complimented me. You made me feel semi-comfortable in my own skin when I had no friends to mingle with. Even though it was a hair spell, it was incredibly helpful. You boosted my confidence—"

Her voice quivered slightly, but she pressed on, her conviction hardening. "And how did I repay your kindness? I insulted you behind your back. You had every right to undo that hair spell when you did."

Emotion swelled in the air as the audience listened, caught up in the honesty of her words. Jane took a hesitant step towards Mal, her voice lowering. "You opened my eyes again and again over the last year and a half. I can't believe it took me so long to realize that belittling someone only builds inadequacies."

As she continued, Jane's hands trembled, gripping Mal's tightly. "When I belittled you, saying you were just the bad infatuation, and claimed, 'Yeah, like anyone will ever make a villain a Queen'—I know now that my words carried the weight of my own mother's belittling. You saw your own mother's reflection through my actions."

Tears pooled in her eyes, genuine remorse flooding her expression. "I am so very genuinely sorry from the bottom of my heart."

She took a deep breath and reached for Mal, pulling her into an embrace. The warmth of their skin pressing together sent a tingling sensation through Mal's body, drawing her in unexpectedly. The crowd around them seemed to fade, leaving just the two of them in that moment.

Mal felt the sincerity in Jane's touch, the way her fingers trembled slightly. Keeping her voice low yet filled with conviction, she finally spoke, "Jane, that was so brave of you—taking accountability for that mistake. It was a beautiful and genuine apology to hear."

Jane pulled back slightly, the vulnerability in her eyes affirming how much she meant every word.

"I forgive you, Jane," Mal said her voice unwavering yet tender. "from the very depths of my Dragon heart, darling."