Abuela Alma was notably hard on Mirabel primarily because Mirabel did not receive a magical gift during her ceremony, an event that Abuela held in exceptionally high regard as central to the Madrigal family's identity and power.
The Significance of the Gift Ceremony to Abuela
Abuela Alma deeply treasured the ceremony in which each new generation of the Madrigal family received their unique magical gift. For her, these gifts were not just abilities; they were the very essence of the family's miracle, crucial for their survival, prosperity, and their role in supporting their community. This profound reverence for the gift-giving ritual meant that any deviation from it was met with concern and apprehension.
Mirabel's Lack of a Gift and Abuela's Reaction
When Mirabel's gift ceremony concluded without her receiving a magical ability, it was a significant source of disappointment and worry for Abuela. This outcome caused Abuela to become cold and distant towards Mirabel.
- Fear for the Miracle: Abuela's harshness stemmed from a deep-seated fear that Mirabel's lack of a gift might signify a weakening of the family's miracle, something she had sacrificed so much to protect.
- Personal Connection: Interestingly, Abuela herself does not overtly possess a magical gift. This fact may have intensified her reaction to Mirabel's situation, possibly projecting her own insecurities or fears about the miracle's fragility onto Mirabel.
- Distinct Exclusion: While Abuela was also known to be strict or demanding of other Madrigal family members regarding their responsibilities and use of their gifts, Mirabel became distinctly left out and treated with a unique level of disapproval. Her lack of a gift set her apart in a way that concerned Abuela, leading to a noticeable difference in how she was treated compared to her gifted cousins and sisters. Abuela's behavior towards Mirabel was a reflection of her anxieties about the family's future and the miracle's endurance.
