This past weekend I did something I had not done in 32 years. Not that I hadn't had the opportunity to do "it" in all those years...I just had always "poo-poo'ed" it. Why would I want to do "that"? Been "there", done "that". This past week, I did "it" with an open mind, and open heart and a kid's point of view AND "it" was a blast!
I went to Disneyland! Having grown up in Florida and gone too many times to count, I had never been to the park in CA. As soon as we got close, the memories of all those trips came flooding back! As my brother-in-law parked the car, I remembered my very first trip. My oldest brother Stephen took my sister Susan and I to the magic kingdom within weeks of it opening (Oct. 1, 1971). I was 8, she was 10 and he was 20. We parked in the front row because they were so discombobulated. As the day went on, I was certain we were in heaven on earth! It was such a treat! Reminds me, appreciate what others do for me.
As my niece-in-laws guided us smoothly through the park, I remembered guiding all the relatives on the countless visits around like I owned the place. The sites, sounds, smells were just as I remembered and it was awesome! Reminds me, see "old things" with "fresh eyes".
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I thought back to all the forts/tree houses I had built as a kid probably because I dreamt of living in the Swiss Family Robinson Tree House or on Tom Sawyer's Island. I guess that is why I love nature to this day! Reminds me, get out into nature more!
As we cruised through Pirates of the Caribbean, I sang "YoHo YoHo, a pirates life for me" loudly just as my father had done. I could see his smiling face and that warmed my heart. I wonder if all those visits to see the pirates primed my love of the islands (and rum)?!?! Reminds me, get to the beach more.
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As my heart was racing waiting in line for Space Mountain wondering if the car could possible come off the track, it occurred to me how great it was to be carefree as a kid. Yes, I screamed words I probably hadn't screamed as young kid! It was exhilarating! Reminds me, no need to worry unnecessarily!
I saw gaggles of girls giggling and gossiping and was reminded of senior year Grad Night..Disney World with my BFF'S. Suddenly I was giggling to myself...reminds me, laugh more and cherish my friendships.
We didn't make it to It's a Small World (my mom's favorite) but I remember seeing all the different cultures singing the same song and thinking "isn't that cool, they all get along". I wonder if that is why I have an open mind? Reminds me, keep working on keeping it open.
Visiting the park that day and reliving the magic really fulfilled me. It made me start thinking...What else am I "poo-poo'ing" that could really fill me up?
Get curious...What did you love to do as a kid? What would it be like to pick something you loved and try it again? What might that experience do for you? Are you willing??!?! I'd love to hear
