Beyond a Dream: A Life Lesson from the Ice

Gabrielle was on the edge of her seat during the magical performance of Disney on Ice's "Dare to Dream." She was especially thrilled while Tiana's story was being shared.

"I'm having so much fun! This is the coolest place! Ever!" she exclaimed.

Later as the cast sang, danced and ice skated to "Almost There," she yelled, "That's my favorite song!" 

At that moment, in my blue power suit and heels and TV make-up, I felt such satisfaction. I knew rushing from a television interview for work after a long day to pick her up from school and dress her and her Princess and Me Tiana doll in their princess attire was so worth it. My 6-year-old daughter had learned the lesson behind the fireworks, fanfare and stunts. She had learned that dreams don't come true by just dreaming.

We were blessed to have the opportunity to participate in a pre-show event with some of the cast. Moms and daughters asked them how they got involved with the show, how many hours they practice and how often they see their families. Gabrielle asked them what stunts we should expect, and I asked what takeaway message they wanted us to leave with after the performance. I kept trying to make sure Gabrielle was listening attentively, but we all know a child's attention span is as short as... (what was I just talking about?). 

We then had a break between the pre-show event and the show, so I told Gabrielle to write down what she learned during the pre-show event. Too excited, I only got a few sentences out of her, but I could not have been more proud — especially with her first sentence:

"Work hard and try your best. Lots of stunts. They miss there family," she wrote (we'll work on "there" versus "their"--hey, lots of adults still don't know the difference).

Many attempt to portray Disney's princesses as only those who wish, but "Dare to Dream" demonstrated that a dream must be accompanied by hard work. What a great life lesson for a young princess to learn.

You still have time to enjoy the life lesson and the fun! Ticket information: http://ow.ly/jFD5P.