Dear Disney,

Since I was a little girl, I've been obsessed with your movies... Not much has changed, to be honest. I remember watching princesses escape impossible situations and go on to live happily ever after. Although it set my expectations for reality a bit too high, Disney has had a huge impact on my life.

People always say that Chick-Fil-A has the best workers, but I think Disney World should be at the top of the list. From the moment you enter a park, the atmosphere changes. The characters jump out of a storybook and become tangible human beings with humor and joy. Even the workers who aren't famous truly live up to the standards of the happiest place on Earth.

If you've never seen a firework show at Disney World, you're missing out. Trust me on this one. The magic and fantasy of this utopia come alive when the park lights go dim. My last visit was during the week of Christmas and I have never seen the Cinderella Castle look so breathtakingly gorgeous. No matter if you're 6 or 60, you can feel the enchantment course through your veins.

Life has taught me that there aren't always happy endings. There won't always be a prince to fight the dragons, storm the castle, and rescue you. In real life, you have to save yourself. So, Disney, I want to thank you.

From three to nineteen years old, you have been a big part of my heart. You taught me to stand up for what's right and never back down. You proved that dreams can come true if you believe in yourself and your goals.

Thank you for treating me like a princess even when I couldn't fit the glass slipper.

Thank you for being the happiest place on Earth to the girl with sad eyes.

Thank you for reminding me that my past does not define me.

Most of all, thank you for teaching me how to be brave and to follow my dreams no matter where they take me.

Sincerely,

A 5-Year-Old At Heart

"The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all." — Mulan