From the time that I was really little, I was raised to appreciate the great classics of American film. Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers were household names, and often my play time revolved around the theme of a Shirley Temple movie. The storylines of these movies would sweep me away to worlds of grand adventure, heroic gentlemen and strong starlets who, after overcoming some major challenge, all lived happily ever after by the end of the movie.

One of my all time favorite movies from this genre is Roman Holiday. The movie follows the young Princess Ann (Audrey Hepburn), who sneaks out of the castle to explore Rome without the restrictions of being royal. While on her grand adventure, she meets Joe (Gregory Peck), a reporter who helps her experience the local lifestyle before returning to the palace. During their time together, Ann is able to visit the majestic aspects of Rome, such as the Coliseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Mouth of Truth. Vespa rides and sidewalk cafes help round out her spontaneous vacation, all from the vantage point of a normal citizen. Even though she must return to her responsibilities as a princess, Ann’s time in a different environment has a lasting impact, and both of the main characters return to their normal lives with different perspectives because of their time together.

I love this movie for two reasons. I love the fact that the audience gets to experience Rome and the Italian culture alongside Princess Ann, and even though it was filmed in black and white, Roman Holiday still captures the splendor of this wonderful European city. But the main reason behind my affinity for this film is the understanding that Princess Ann gains while on her adventure. She had spent her life wishing to be someone else, and believed that she would be happier if she could trade her crown in for a sidewalk café. Even though Ann had the choice to remain a “commoner,” her time in the city allowed the princess to discover a new aspect of her character, and the experience actually helped her embrace her royal role instead of resent it.

There are days when I wish that I could sneak out the back door and leave all the responsibilities and demands of life to someone else. At times, I catch myself wondering if the grass is greener somewhere else and if I missed the boat along the way. The truth of the matter is, I am right where I am supposed to be, and have an important role to play in the life that I have been given. While it is a good thing to take a “Roman Holiday” every once in a while, when I embrace who I am created to be, I am free to live my life to its fullest potential.

photo voneurope.com