My oldest is just about to graduate from high school. We are in the throes of party planning, graduation invitation making, and senior trip planning. Did I mention I am a high school teacher too? Needless to say, it is a busy time in our household.

When your child reaches the pinnacle of their high school education and is preparing to flee (yes, I said flee) you begin to reflect on all of the experiences throughout their school-age years. Looking back over the years of pictures while thinking of all the stories behind those photos brings back such a flood of emotion. My child has lived a fortunate life as the daughter of a travel agent. She has been able to experience Walt Disney World more times than the average yearly visitor does in their lifetime. She can navigate the parks solo and lead a group while pointing out hidden Mickey’s and important windows on Main Street USA.

I like to think Disney has left an impression on her that will carry over into her life. I hope she has learned to dream the impossible and then work hard at reaching that dream. I hope she has learned how to treat people with respect even if you don’t agree with how they treat others. I hope she has observed the opposite of the aforementioned and will gracefully navigate tough situations with people. I hope she will stretch herself to think outside of the box in her work but not be afraid to fail. Most of all, I hope she remains childlike and never loses her sense of wonder when she walks down toward Cinderella Castle.

While there are many more important lessons in life she has learned through her faith, her family, and her education, Disney remains a significant imprint in her life. Don’t be ashamed to raise your child to be more than what the world sees them!