Small Acts of Disney Kindness

Milestone Birthday

Normally, I’m not one to draw attention to myself. I much prefer to hide behind the scenes than to take center stage. I often wear neutral colors to blend into my surroundings. I’m comfortable being a wall flower.

But my 65^th birthday felt worthy of something a little out of the ordinary. 

I knew Disney offered Birthday Buttons for anyone who cared to wear one. I decided this small accessory would help me feel special without causing too much undo attention.  While I was right on the first account, I was grossly mistaken on the second. 

From the moment I put on the pin, the magic began. Cast members greeted me with a cheerful “Happy Birthday!” wherever I went. Everyone from bus drivers to ticket takers, from restaurant servers to resort personnel seemed to notice. Even total strangers took a moment to smile and offer birthday wishes. It was as if the entire resort joined together to celebrate my special day.

What struck me most was how much these small gestures meant to me. I didn’t have to engage in conversation to feel a connection. Just a quick “Happy Birthday” helped me feel seen, valued, and celebrated. The kindness of these strangers demonstrated how a seemingly insignificant action can make a big difference.

Just a Little Bit of Kindness...

As I reflect on this celebratory time, I’m reminded of Ephesians 4:32: Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. This verse speaks to the transformative power of simple acts of kindness. While a birthday greeting may not seem like much, I can attest how small actions can brighten someone’s day.

Kindness is contagious. While cast members are trained to create magical moments for guests, their joy inspires others to pass kindness along. It’s a ripple effect of goodwill that turns an ordinary day into something special.

But we don’t need to be at Disney or wear a birthday button to spread kindness. Every day offers opportunities to brighten someone’s day --  from a simple smile to a word of encouragement. When we show kindness, we reflect God’s love and make the world a little brighter for those around us.

... Goes a Long Way

Celebrating my 65th birthday with a noticeable pin may have felt out of character for me, but it taught me an important lesson. Sometimes, stepping out of your comfort zone can open your heart to unexpected blessings. By allowing others to celebrate with me, I experienced a deeper connection to the people around me and a renewed appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

If you’ve never worn a birthday pin at Walt Disney World, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s more than a way to mark a milestone—it’s an invitation to experience the joy of being celebrated. But beyond Disney, I hope this inspires others to find ways to spread kindness in everyday life. That small gesture might mean more to someone than you’ll ever know.

 

Dreams Do Come True — Even After Retirement

 

My first tour group: March 2007

A Blog is Born

For years, I dreamed of becoming a travel writer. After leading four different student groups to Europe, I had a wealth of stories to explore. I envisioned retirement as a series of overseas trips lasting three months at a time. I wanted to live in Paris, London, and Venice just like a native — shopping at local markets, speaking the language, and fully immersing myself in the culture. As a lifelong journaler, I dreamed of documenting each day in great detail with the hope of compiling those experiences into a book.

But life had other plans. Priorities shifted, and those aspirations of becoming a travel writer faded into the distance. I have no regrets, mind you. Life just took a different direction from what I imagined.

This summer, however, a new dream emerged. Now living full-time in Florida, I decided to treat myself to an Annual Pass to the most magical place on earth. My intention was to escape reality for a few hours each month. However, the experience turned into something far more meaningful. As I wandered through the parks, surrounded by the joy and wonder that Disney inspires, I felt that familiar urge to capture those moments in writing. That’s when the idea for Faith, Joy, and Mouse Ears was born.

Yet, months after creating the blog, it sat empty. Impostor Syndrome reared its ugly head, whispering doubts into my mind: Does anyone care? Am I good enough? Surely I’m too old. The fears were paralyzing, but the desire to write was apparently stronger.

Taking a Step of Faith

Then this past fall, I stumbled upon another opportunity. This one far bigger than a personal blog. Dare I take the chance? Impostor Syndrome screamed, NO! Do you really want to face rejection? But this time I was not going to quit without an effort. 

With a prayerful heart and a bit of courage, I reached out to the newly launched Disney 4 Seniors blog. I didn’t know if they would even respond, but I offered to write a freelance article, free of charge. To my surprise and delight, they not only responded but were thrilled to collaborate.

Since then, I’ve had the privilege of writing two articles for them with more projects in the works. The opportunity to combine my love for Disney and my passion for writing has been nothing short of a dream come true.

He Gives Abundantly More

A most unexpected development in this journey is my upcoming appearance on the premiere episode of a new podcast, Disney for Seniors: It’s Our Time. Launching on January 30th, the podcast celebrates the joy, wisdom, and unique perspectives that seniors bring to the Disney experience. I’m honored (and nervous) to be part of this initiative.

As I reflect on this new opportunity, I can’t help but recall Ephesians 3:20: Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us. 

When I first dreamed of becoming a travel writer, I never imagined God would use a cartoon mouse to open the door. However, His plans have exceeded anything I could have hoped for.

The Message of Faith, Joy, and Mouse Ears

FAITH: This journey is filled with spiritual lessons that resonate deeply with me. Dreams often require a leap of faith, and faith is about trusting in the unseen. Of course, there are times when I doubt myself and question my abilities. But by trusting God’s timing and stepping out in courage, I discovered big dreams do come true - although not often in the manner we expect.

JOY: While happiness is temporary, joy extends beyond circumstances. Disney isn’t just about the thrill of the rides; it’s about embracing the childlike wonder in everyday magic. Choosing joy means focusing on the blessings of life instead of what is lacking.

MOUSE EARS: I must admit… Disney is the last place I expected to hear God’s small voice. After all, the parks are loud, childish, and fun. Isn’t God supposed to be quiet, mature, and serious? But I soon discovered that setting aside what others may think and putting on a pair of Mouse Ears can free me to be the joy-filled Molly He created me to be.

Continuing the Journey - One Step at a Time

As I prepare for the podcast launch and continue writing for both blogs, I’m grateful for this season of life. While life is never without its challenges, I’m discovering it still remains rich with purpose and possibility – even after 65. What seems like a pipedream can, in His time, become a fulfilling reality.

Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. 
~ Psalm 37:4

In other words… Dreams really do come true if you have a little faith - about the size of pixie dust 🪄