A couple of years ago, my husband and I took our first born to Disney World. She was four years old and adored Ariel. When we told her about the trip she was ecstatic. She could not wait to meet her hero. As you know, all the princesses live in Florida. So, Florida she must go.
Eventually, she received the opportunity to meet Ariel at her grotto. The poor thing was overtaken with nerves, but she persevered. She waited patiently in line until it was finally her turn to sit right next to her mermaid! Since she was starstruck, however, she plunked herself down a football field away from the princess. Ariel very sweetly asked her to scoot closer, and after apprehensively glancing in my direction, she agreed.
My daughter’s prized picture from the vacation shows Ariel stretching her arm out as far as possible to encircle her shoulders. My baby’s grin was uncertain but her eyes reflected wonder.
After leaving, my daughter’s confidence soared. Her dream had been achieved. A bounce was added to her step and she led me around the park with newfound boldness. All subsequent adventures were less intimidating. She was now personal friends with the most famous mermaid of all time. She had won at life.
Life is not always easy when you are four. You are forced to do your parents bidding. Most of your schedule is out of your control. You battle your emotions daily. You have to share your favorite toy and then your sibling breaks it. Things can get tough.
The saving grace of childhood is the ability to be fully satisfied with little. Each new activity brings forth a fascination unheard of in adults. My four year old did not need to complete a lengthy list of experiences at Disney to validate her trip. She met her idol and her heart was at peace.
This contentment teaches us much about the fundamentals of life. Being a preschooler might be hard, but savoring the special moments makes it a lot better.
The ability to marvel is a gift and we must hold onto it forever.
K