I was recommended the manga Space Brothers by Chūya Koyama, and its premise intrigued me enough to give it a try. As the title implies, the story revolves around two brothers who dreamt of going to space as children. The younger brother, Hibito, successfully becomes an astronaut for JAXA, while the older brother, Mutta, faces setbacks in pursuing the same goal. However, Mutta’s journey takes a turn when he receives a letter inviting him to join a JAXA training program for aspiring astronauts. The series chronicles his path to reignite his dream and achieve his goal, just like his younger brother.
Themes like brotherhood rivalry, passion, and the love for space and the unknown make this manga compelling and relatable.
A Relatable Protagonist: Mutta’s Journey
Mutta, the older brother, stands out as a deeply relatable character. Many of us have experienced moments like his—dreaming big as children but losing sight of those dreams as life unfolds. Witnessing his younger brother’s success brings a mix of jealousy and happiness, a conflict many can understand.
However, the story reveals a profound truth: Mutta’s struggle isn’t about competing with his brother. His challenges stem from forgetting his own dreams, shaped by the events of his life. The astronaut training program reignites his passion, and as he gradually overcomes his jaded outlook, we cheer for him as he rediscovers curiosity and the drive to learn.
Lessons for Us All
We often find ourselves living in the shadow of someone—a sibling, parent, or friend—who seems to excel at everything. This comparison is especially impactful during youth when our developing brains lead us to mimic and admire those around us. While emulating others can inspire us, it’s equally important to reflect on what genuinely drives us.
As caretakers, we influence children not only by what we say but by how we act. Encouraging them to explore their personal passions—rather than imposing our desires—fosters their individuality and growth.
The Vastness of Space and the Brain
The theme of space in Space Brothers also inspires humility. The universe’s immensity reminds us of our smallness, especially when we realize many stars we see no longer exist. This reflection extends to time—our most finite resource—and emphasizes the need to create healthy habits for our brains.
Just as the universe is vast, our brains are equally awe-inspiring. Every second, billions of neural interactions occur, empowering us with human abilities. By cultivating habits that nurture our brains, we ensure daily progress toward becoming our best selves.
What Drives You?
Have you ever felt like Mutta—stuck in the shadow of someone else or disconnected from your own dreams? How do you reconnect with what truly drives you? Share your thoughts and let’s inspire one another!
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