When most people hear the word Disney, they may think of a multi-million dollar movie-making company. Others think about the amusement parks or even the characters. To me, however, Disney holds a much deeper meaning—one that makes me thrilled to start this journey of writing about Disney. Disney to me, above all else, means magic.
It all began when I was very young. I want to say maybe around five. Snow White was out doing meet-and-greets with all Seven Dwarfs and if you are a Disney goer, you know that is really rare. My mom realized this and told me to run so I could see them. I did and proceeded to wipe out on the asphalt, scraping my knee in the process. Snow White noticed and went to get me a band-aid while each dwarf passed me around for hugs. I told my tale of woe over and over so all seven could hear and once I reached Snow White, my tears were gone. This was my first experience with how magical Disney really was. A few years later, my brother was having a stimming moment. Pluto recognized what was happening and his character attendant brought us to a small and secluded courtyard for some alone time with the pup. Pluto laid down and we got to rub his belly and even do tricks with him. My brother instantly smiled again and it suddenly dawned on me that magic truly lives in Disney.
Flash forward to an 18-year-old me. My mother and I went to Disney World as a high school graduation present. We spent the day in Magic Kingdom and had an amazing time. We rode all my favorite rides, like Space Mountain and Haunted Mansion, and had ice cream for lunch. Basically my perfect day. However, when night fell and it was time for the Electrical Parade, my mom was no longer as joyous. She has a heart condition and the heat mixed with all the activity was taking its toll. We looked for a place for her to sit but turned up empty-handed. I got the idea to talk to a cast member in the handicap section. I explained our situation and asked if my mom could sit in there. I also said I would go watch from elsewhere as to not take any more room from those in need. What he did next was beyond amazing. He told us to follow him and along the way my mother and he got into a conversation about how they would both make excellent Jasmines, given a girdle and a wig. He then took us to the VIP viewing area and explained our story to the cast member there. We were welcomed and were told that we should be able to watch together as a family. My mom and I were in tears as to the kindness of this man who went above and beyond just for us.
It is the magic that exists there that causes others to do magical acts. That is why I am beyond excited to start this journey. Hopefully writing about Disney can bring a little more magic into the world. Sometimes it just takes a little faith, trust and pixie dust.
