The night sky lit up with fireworks and magical lights, while the air filled with music and the wonder of story. The evening shows at Disney World are my favorite, and my recent trip was no exception. I am particularly drawn to Epcot’s Luminous show. It inspires me to hope and embrace the connection we all share. The inspiration from the trip didn’t end there–I brought home several souvenirs I’d like to share.
A little kindness makes the world a happier place to be
The cast members at Disney were simply kind. From the parking attendant doing a cheerful dance and the security guard asking about corn in Nebraska, to the restaurant server and the ride attendants, every interaction was friendly, kind, and pleasant. That kindness created a ripple effect, making the park’s atmosphere genuinely happy. Considering the thousands of visitors, it’s remarkable how few moments of discord I noticed. A smile, a kind tone, or a friendly word–these simple acts truly make the world a happier place.
The world needs a little surprise and delight
While I recognize that this is a clever marketing strategy, the impact of Disney’s “surprise and delight” approach was undeniable. When the standby line for a ride promised a 30-minute wait, it was a surprise to find ourselves riding in just 20 minutes. The line moved steadily the entire time, so it didn’t feel long at all. Instead of feeling frustrated, we collectively experienced delight. Similarly, a waiter’s playful shout, “Who’s got a camera?” followed by a photo of us with the Beast waving in the background, became a cherished memory. These moments remind me that ordinary people can create similar experiences through thoughtful texts, notes, gestures, or small gifts–anything that brings unexpected joy to others.
Just keep moving and discover a more positive world
We walked between six and eight miles each day, easily meeting our step goals. Movement was constant, even in lines–they flowed so smoothly that it never felt like we were standing still. This steady progress fostered positivity, leaving little room for complaints or negativity. Plus, pleasant distractions and entertaining sights kept my mind upbeat. On one ride, I spotted Dory, who famously advises, “Just keep swimming.” Her wisdom resonated deeply: keep moving forward, whether physically or mentally, instead of dwelling on setbacks. The Disney experience reinforced how movement and forward momentum can lead to a more positive outlook on life.
I’ve been to Disney three times, and each experience was magical in its own way. Each trip taught me vivid, unique lessons. However, one doesn’t need to visit Disney World to discover the magic. Kindness, surprise and delight, and movement are available every day, right where we are. In these simple ways, I brought the magic home with me.