I’ve heard some FFVII fans say they don’t like Aerith because she is too bubbly, optimistic, and happy-go-lucky. Many in the west find this behavior “annoying.”
But what I saw was someone who was trying hard to hide her insecurities, pain, and sadness.
Not only did Aerith hear the cries of a dying Planet, she also lost her Mother & Father at a very young age.
Aerith lived in constant fear of being captured by Shinra because she was the last remaining Ancient. This was probably a very lonely, scary, and isolating experience.
Thankfully, Aerith found solace in her Church — a place where she could grow flowers and explore her Cetra abilities. Not until she met Cloud Strife, her Bodyguard, did she feel this safe again.
In Aerith, I saw someone who was naturally optimistic and happy, but someone who was also faced with the harsh realities of life.
Instead of letting this dampen her spirits, she strived to be the happiest she could given the circumstances that surrounded her. And for that reason alone, she is an inspiration to me. She inspires me to remain optimistic and strong, even when times seem unbearable.
While they were together, Cloud was able to bring happiness into Aerith’s life, if only for a short while. I loved how happy Aerith was during her date with Cloud at Gold Saucer!
Although the end of Aerith’s life was also tragic, she remained hopeful for a better future until her very last moments.
In some ways, returning to the Planet might have finally brought Aerith the peace and never-ending happiness she sought while she was living.
And I know in my heart Cloud will one day reunite with Aerith in the Promised Land, and they will be together for eternity. Soulmates.
While Aerith was alive, she had her struggles and personal demons, but she’d never let you know it. And that’s why, to me, she is the true heroine of FFVII.
“I’ll be going now, I’ll come back when it’s all over.” ~Aerith’s last words
Optimistic until the very end...
