Beyond the Capes and Aisles

Imagine my surprise when the new superstore next door was more puzzle than one-stop solution. I'm usually a Walmart and Target kind of person, but this new place caught my eye, especially with the holiday buzz. 🎄

Armed with a list of about 10 grocery items, I ventured into the superstore, only to find three of them. Disappointed but not deterred, I headed to their toy section. Here's where my heart was set on finding something very special – Ms. Marvel action figures 🦸‍. You see, Ms. Marvel isn't just any superhero to me; she's a mirror to my heritage, a reflection of my Pakistani roots, and the Karachi streets I hold close to my heart. For once, a superhero spoke Urdu, mirrored my culture, and made me feel seen in a universe often dominated by characters I could admire but not fully relate to. It's cool to finally have a superhero who feels like family. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Sadly, all I found was a lone Captain Marvel action figure. It left me wondering if The Marvels was even released yet. I mean, it's the festive season, shouldn't there be more?

My next stops, Target and then Walmart, echoed the first disappointment. I even double-checked the movie's release on my phone amid the aisles – it had been out for a week! The absence of Ms. Marvel merchandise made my heart sink. 🤷‍♂️ Were they sold out, or had they never been stocked?

Returning home, I felt a tinge of disappointment. In 2023, why was the search for something as simple as an action figure turning into a Herculean task? Despite the setback, my resolve to find that action figure hasn't waned. Ms. Marvel, with her unique representation of my Pakistani, Karachi, Urdu-speaking background, has been more than a character; she's been a beacon of representation in a world where I've longed to see a part of my identity reflected.

While searching online, I stumbled upon a few headlines about the movie. It seems Ms. Marvel is still finding her footing in mainstream America. Sometimes, it feels like Disney's efforts, while commendable, didn't quite hit the mark. It's like those ideas that start with a bang but don't always get the follow-through they deserve. Makes you wonder what's next, huh? 🤔

I've been a Ms. Marvel fan since her comic book days, loved the show, and can't wait to watch the movie. The last couple of weeks have been a whirlwind of client go-lives, leaving little room for anything else. But, as I wind down, I'm more determined to find that piece of my superheroine.

It's not just about adding a toy to my collection; it's about celebrating a character that's a piece of me.

Maybe I'll 3D print my own Ms. Marvel action figure. 🖨️ One more project added to the list.

Just going to leave this here:

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