cosmicspacefrog:

Spike, Take a letter.

“Dear Princess Celestia-

Today, I learned something wonderful.

But it wasn’t so much about my friends, as it was about myself. For you see princess…I have the most to learn out of anyone. Even though I don’t like to admit it :(

You see, before I came to Ponyville…there was very little I knew about social interaction. There’s only so much you can read about having friends without actually spending time with them. Sure Spike was there, but I can’t relate to him as well as I would always like. He’s more like a little brother to me. I adore him, but Spike just doesn’t share my interests. He can be annoying and nosey, and doesn’t respect my privacy; he just isn’t the same sort of friend as the ones I have made since coming to Ponyville.

And of course you were there Princess, but as much as I don’t want to say it, you were closer to a guardian for me than a friend. You were always above me, always expecting great things, and while I would not trade that for the world…it’s just not the same as having people in my own age group I can laugh with, who I can share all my thoughts, ideas and problems with.

I look up to you too much Princess; I would not be able to treat you the way a proper friend deserves. 

—-

But even still, I felt content. In a way, I guess I was happy. Happy that I had already accomplished so much at a young age, happy that my life was on a track that I had chosen, and that I had a solid future.

But I suppose that is what got the better of me. I guess I became…well…a little full of myself. I felt that I was above needing typical friendships, because I had you and my studies. I felt I didn’t need anything else…and the longer I stayed shut in with my books, the more arrogant I got. I had stayed inside reading for so long that it became the only thing I knew. Equestrian history, sports, nature, jobs, style, fun…all these things became non-descript pieces of paper that were to be archived and referenced when I needed them to prove my worth to you once more. I thought I was happy, but I guess I just didn’t know how happy I COULD be.

I had turned into a bit of a sassy hipster.

—-

This is why arriving in Ponyville was such a massive shock to the system, which wasn’t at all helped by the fact that the first pony I met was Pinkie, haha.

Every pony I met was more foreign to me than the last. At first, I thought that every pony in this town was CRAZY! But now that I have been through so much with them…well…they are still crazy, haha. But I love them all the more for it.

Each one of my friends has helped me to understand more about what it takes to be a worthy companion, and how best to overcome the obstacles life throws at us.

—-

Pinkie Pie, gosh Princess, what can I say about her? She goes at 100 miles an hour, all day every day. She can get exhausting at times, and I still don’t fully understand how she can predict certain things like doors opening and objects falling from the sky, but I wouldn’t trade her uniqueness for the world. She has helped to teach me that it can be healthy to put aside your concerns for how other people see you. She is so comfortable with herself, and is afraid of no monster. I envy her for that endless well of energy she draws from, and her ability to always look on the brighter side.

But I also sense a dark side in Pinkie. I don’t know if she is hiding something, or can’t control her anger (seeing s how she is almost never angry and would be unfamiliar with the emotion) but I sense something more to her, and I cannot say for certain if it is pretty. Perhaps time will tell.

—-

Applejack on the other hand, now she is easy. She’s the strongest pony I know, and not just physically. Applejack is like a warrior who watches over us, how she finds time to be our friend whilst still running that orchid of hers is anybody’s guess, but we can all count on her and she knows it.

I guess that is where she struggles though. She is so used to taking on so much work, that she can get a little carried away with it. She is very protective of Applebloom, even when it might be better to allow Applebloom to have those difficult life experiences that help us all grow. And she is so dedicated to all of us, that I don’t think she knows when to quit. She isn’t invincible, and has yet to learn that about herself.

She has taught me the meaning of honesty, and fortitude, through her brave actions and braver words.

—-

This is also true of Fluttershy. I have never met a kinder or gentler pony in all my life. But despite her softness, Fluttershy shows remarkable strength, willing to put aside everything that makes he who she is, just to help us out.

Perhaps she is learning that sometimes, in order to show kindness and o the right thing by our friends, we have to be firm. It’s just that I don’t think she knows how to tame her inner beast, once she figures out how to let it off the chain.

—-

But Rainbow Dash, her inner fighter is something she has dedicated her life to embracing. The wind in her mane, the glory of victory, the ferocious lightning bolts that fire alongside her as she cuts through the clouds…Rainbow Dash lives for adventure, so her aspiration to be part of the Wonderbolts is something that doesn’t surprise me in the least. They would be lucky to have her.

But I fear her lust for the extreme may stem from an intense desire to just be noticed. She craves self validation, and to her…being so electric and wild is a way to satisfy that craving. I hope she learns that we love her already, before she hurts herself trying to impress us…

She has an inferiority complex I think I can relate to….

—-

Although Rarity seems to think she already HAS impressed us.

I adore Rarity. She is incredibly talented and creative; her skills as a fabric artist are truly unmatched in all of Equestria.

She IS however, just a little bit overly melodramatic. That’s her way though, and that’s fine, but she can get just as exhausting as Pinkie Pie at times. But I don’t really see this as a problem; quite the opposite in fact, she endears herself more and more to me every time I see her. I just wish Applejack could see Rarity the way I do and appreciate that even though you carry yourself delicately and immaculately, that doesn’t mean you are incapable of taking care of yourself and getting your problems solved.

—-

I guess what I am trying to say here princess, is that all my friends have a place in Ponyville they truly belong. They have lived here for years, they just fit.

But me…I had no idea what I was doing. I have come to a foreign place, isolated, unfamiliar, and scary. I arrived judgmental and naive to their customs…so I had to slowly claw my way up the ladder. I had to work for my place. It wasn’t easy, but the things I have learnt along the way are more valuable than anything I could have learnt reading a textbook.

It’s been a bit of an emotional rollercoaster for me. One minute, I am trying to impose myself on Applejack and force her to rest herself from all her hard work, the next I am chewing out Spike for his attempt to sabotage the efforts of Owliscious.

In fact, I seem to swing back and forth between “Authorative leader” and “bossy bitch” a whole lot, with a little bit too much tendency to lean towards “bitch”. Maybe that comes from my years studying under you Princess. I mean, it isn’t at all your fault; it’s just part of my overachievement complex I need to try and conquer.  

With my strange hidden powers and the privilege of being around you for so long, I may sometimes get a bit full of myself, even when I don’t mean to. I feel I need to stay on top of things, not just to impress you, but because secretly….well….I couldn’t forgive myself if anything happened to my friends and it was my fault. I don’t think they know this, but I feel responsible for them. Maybe I picked it up from you Princess Haha ;)”

Oh um, Spike? Can you make sure you don’t include the word ‘bitch’ in that last paragraph? Just replace it with something else ok? I might get in trouble for that one. Spike? Are you listening? Ugh…

Anyway, where was I?

“OH YES!

A very important day for me was Winter Wrap up day. That day I think truly helped to define who I was, and what I can do. Even though I think everyone had a good idea of where I would end up, it was still a memorable experience finding out. My friends helped me pick through the possibilities of what I could contribute, and without them I don’t think I would have been able to step up to the position I did and organise the event.

I didn’t realise it at the time, but the reason I wanted to fit in so badly was that the citizens of Ponyville had truly found a place in my heart. I instinctively wanted to repay that acceptance I had been shown, and even though I made some mistakes, I would not change that day for the world.

I guess the same is even true of when Trixie paid the town a visit…

—-

That is one of the most valuable things I have learned since coming to Ponyville. To place others before myself. My friends have endeared themselves to me like I thought nopony could, and each one has helped rid me of my shallow, pre-conceived notions about the world in their own wonderful way. It has taken them a long time, but I think I am finally in a place where I am truly happy in being myself. My friends accept my love of study as part of who I am (Rainbow Dash affectionately calls me ‘bookworm’ when nobody is looking, haha), so I must always remember to show them the same beautiful generosity, unwavering loyalty, empowering honesty and loving kindness that they show me. And also to laugh as much as possible along the wayJ.

I can be judgmental, even insensitive sometimes, with a very logical, methodical way of doing things, but they stick by me regardless. Even when I tried to push them away.

Sometimes I may try to use my ‘Authorative’ voice with them, or try to take control and boss them around. And sometimes they do things that I just cannot explain for the life of me. But every time they do, I learn something new and valuable about not just friendship, but myself.

—-

Actually Princess, maybe the most valuable thing I have learned is not about myself, or even my friends.

I think maybe, it’s that there is always something NEW to learn every day. Life takes us in directions we could never see coming. You end up in places and situations you never expect, with ponies who you could never see yourself with before.

So every day, every second, is a brand new experience with something to show you. There is a whole sea of experience and knowledge at the tip of your hooves. Sometimes it may seem tough, but when you have your friends close by your side, there is nothing you cannot conquer together.

Thankyou Princess, for everything you have done for me. From nurturing my talents as a filly, to pushing me out into the world. Friendship truly is magic after all. And that’s something you just can’t learn from a book.”

Your faithful student—

~~Twilight Sparkle~~

Uhh hey Princess, Spike here. Twilight is too modest for this, but I thought you would enjoy some great clips of her. Enjoy!

Twilight stands her ground:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIIokqTNbpE&feature=related

Twilight is evolving!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYdJT_KY5_s&feature=related

What did she see?!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0aVCuFHt88&feature=related

She probably had soap on her hoof…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqsdzRti9x8&feature=related

cosmicspacefrog:

Name: Applejack.

Sex: Female

Hair colour: Blonde

Occupation: Chief orchid harvester of Sweet Apple Acres farmstead.

Element of Harmony: Honesty

Reliability: At all times

I want you to imagine something for me. Picture in your mind a young girl who has just announced to her friends that she is due to be married to her boyfriend of three weeks. The boyfriend in question happens to be a jobless, abusive stoner who has just gotten out of prison.

The girl nervously declares her engagement and shows off the finger her ring would be on had she been given one, and is then met with an indecisive round of applause, followed by a few worried looks around the room. Her friends pat her on the back politely, and say how “happy” they all are for her. Assuring her how “wonderful” the next few years of her life will be. All except one. One friend who is just standing there, staying clear of the “supportive” circle of “genuine” hugs. Her boots are tracking mud on the carpet and her hair has sticks in it.

That one friend then shatters the tension in the room and bluntly states:

“Have you spit yer’ bit? Ya’ll do realise this is a stupid idea right?”

No shame. No fear. No regret.

That’s Applejack.

—-

AJ is the rock of the group. The resilient, ever present reminder that if you ever fall down, she’ll be there to scoop you up and help you carry on. Fiercely protective of her friends, family, and way of life, Applejack has proven herself an ever present guardian of Ponyville who everyone can count on. Rain, hail or shine.

And therein lies her downfall.

Applejack is her own worst enemy. She is easily strong and brave enough to go un-intimidated by most of the challenges the group face (with the exception of Zecora) so she has turned her focus to keeping up her own self-made persona of an ever-reliable friend and it’s when she puts this pressure on herself that she seems to come unstuck, she cracks under her own pressure rather than anyone else’s. She’s like a lion with no natural predators to teach her that she isn’t invincible. The only one who has ever come close to teaching her that is Rainbow Dash.

But you see, unlike Rainbow Dash, Applejack does not feel the need to showboat her strength or bravery at every given opportunity. Where Dash seems to be often doing it just to try and hide her own insecurities, AJ doesn’t feel the need to because she is already so upfront about who she is, and does it out of a genuine instinct to protect her friends.

Donny and Marie Osmond once sang “I’m a little bit country, and I’m a little bit rock’n roll!” I think that suits the best friend duo of AJ and Dash quite nicely. Fanart of the two ponies commonly depict them as best friends who constantly compete and play pranks on each other and it usually fits quite nicely with the continuity of the show.

—-

 To this hard-kickin’ work horse, there’s nothing special about diving under a falling boulder to push her friend out of harm’s way or offering to walk around AN ENTIRE MOUNTAIN just to make sure her most feeble friend remains unharmed. It’s all in a day’s work. But she is also ferociously stubborn. Her instinct to stay protective over her friends and family has overlapped into her personality and given her a very hard headed nature, one that won’t tolerate any sort of failure in herself.  It’s 100% or nothing at all.

She is also the ONLY generation 1 pony to have kept her original name. Hasbro apparently did not have the presence of mind to copyright all the original names. Only Applejack and Spike have made through the generations with their names unscathed. And that is probably for the best, because comparing the current names to the old ones, Applejack is really the only one worth keeping from way back when.

—-

The only people Applejack cares more for than her friends are her family. Granny Smith, older brother Big Macintosh and little sister Applebloom.

Big Macintosh talks like an even bigger hillbilly than Applejack does, but despite his short screen time Big Mac has managed to make it evident that he’s not a dumb hick. He seems smart enough to understand that to get around AJ’s temper and stubbornness, it’s better to let her learn her lesson. In “Applebuck Season” he tries to reason with her when she takes on the immeasurable job of harvesting every single apple tree on her property by herself, but when her temper inevitably gets the better of her as he knew it would, he lets her just burn herself out trying and then chimed in when she was at her weakest. Not the worst psychology ever employed.

 Applebloom on the other hand, is a typical little kid. Always trying to prove her worth just like her big sister, and constantly having to learn that she just isn’t there yet. Applejacks stubbornness seems to have rubbed off on her somewhat, as Applebloom rarely takes no for an answer.

 AJ has become like an unofficial mother figure for Applebloom, and it’s a responsibility she takes very seriously. She is so protective of Applebloom that she is willing to confront the only other creature to really put shivers down her spine (Zecora) even while suffering from a curse that reduces her to a form no more than two inches tall. Appletini is no less brave or straightforward than she was at full size, and hearing that high pitched southern accent try to be bossy was five kinds of adorable.

—-

Something else about Applejack almost passed me by. The characters fit in so well alongside each other that this isn’t something you might give much thought to. It occurred to me that she is one of the best examples of the actual show doing its best to accommodate all types of careers for young girls. Applejack says that just because you’re a girl, that doesn’t mean you have to be afraid of getting dirty. If it’s what you want in life, then you can still roll up your sleeves and do all that hard work just as well as the boys.

—-

But naturally, this workhorse nature is something that would get under Rarities skin. Rarity is a pony who obsesses over the tiniest of details, whereas Applejack would rather just force her problems to solve themselves. The two personalities would probably never get on in the real world, so having them in the show is another great example of how it encourages young people of all different kinds to just get along.

Unfortunately, the only time we ever see a real ‘Rarity vs Applejack’ moment is in the episode “Look Before you Sleep”. They have nitpicked at each other before but it wasn’t until we saw an entire episode based around their differences that I realised Applejack can be kind of a hypocrite when it comes to Rarity.

Applejack bases her entire persona off the concept of honesty. Say what you mean, stand by your actions, and don’t be ashamed of who you are.

Well, it’s when Rarity does exactly that…that Applejack can’t stand her, and it’s an unfortunate paradox for her to be in. She can’t win either way. On the one hoof, she encourages everyone to be proud of who they are, and that’s exactly what Rarity does. So in that sense, AJ should be proud of her friend for standing by her loves and hobbies so thoroughly.

But on the other hoof, Rarity has a way of thinking that is entirely foreign to a pony who is used to regular, dangerous labour, and all the preening and fussing is something that she just can’t understand so she naturally gets annoyed. 

But the only reason she IS getting annoyed, is because Applejack sticks by her way of doing things just the same as Rarity does. So standing by her lifestyle and getting annoyed at Rarities fussiness means automatically contradicting her beliefs about people being who they should be.

By being who she is at heart, Applejack is looking down her nose at the very concept of being who you are at heart.

A double edged sword you see.

The two have much to learn from each other however. Rarity could teach Applejack that sometimes it’s not nice to smell like a cow pat just because you alone are comfortable with it, that a little beautification can go a long way.

And AJ could teach Rarity that sometimes you just need to crack your knuckles and get on with it.

*PHEW*

I hope I communicated all that blabbering well enough for everyone to understand, let’s move on before my brain starts dripping out of my nose.

—-

Applejack embodies her element of harmony perhaps the best out of all the main cast. She is pure simplicity right down to her core; even her animation has a strong, purposeful feel to it. As a filly she learned to avoid those who turn up their noses at honest folk and decided to stick to who you know yourself to be, which is something we could all do to remember.

If she had a motto, it would be “Get over yourself”. Life gives us all kinds of unfairness. How would YOU like it if you had to take care of your grandmother, little sister and entire family business with nobody but your brother to help you? Sometimes we just need to spit in our hands, tighten our belt and start gettin’ shit done. Tough love baby. Applejack has done this with truly applaudable strength. Even when she IS officially congratulated it doesn’t seem to have any effect on her ego one way or the other (although that could just be the sleep deprivation). She helps give you the courage to believe that if you don’t have the life you think you deserve, then work and fight to get it. And do it with a big ol’ smile on your face.

There’s nothing special about a bit of good old fashioned hard work, and after enough tree kicking to give her legs that could stop a freight train, the friendly and boisterous Applejack knows this better than most.

Put ‘em up Winona!

Here are some clips of our apple loving, tree hugging, hard working pony friend.

AJ and Rarity face off in “Look Before you Sleep”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VKxaWl2sRl4

Who’s a silly Pony?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84PZbL_-jjU

AJ compilation:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UzlXIdeKjuI

Dash and Applejack get competitive, but grow closer in “Fall Weather Friends” (Another one of my favourites)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tDnNqSVw0v8

I take absolutely no credit whatsoever for these pictures, art, or video’s. And that’s the honest truth.

Ya’ll did a fine job!