As someone who cherishes the nostalgia and serenity of the memorable moments at Disneyland, it only seems fit to have remembered some of mine from my earlier years. That is the reason why most people go to Disneyland (especially those with children), is to create memories of wonder and magic. Those fortunate enough to visit Walt Disney's kingdom in their younger years have the preserved feeling of wonder that can happen from meeting their favorite character or riding their favorite ride. When the years of adolescence and adult begin to erode on that sense of joy, they go back.
That is where one of the greatest points of marketing that Disneyland has offered since its opening in 1955, and will offer every day that it is open. Disneyland holds unblemished happiness inside its walls. Despite the possibilities for disappointment through errors in FastPass+ or rudeness of some Annual Passholders, many hold Disneyland in their minds as one of the best places to be.
For me, when I was younger, going to the Parks gave me a sense of wisdom. I understood where things were and how to get there, but not only that, I knew why they were. I could spout off bouts of trivia at the drop of a Mickey-eared hat. My family joked that I would be the next tour guide for Disneyland. As I grew, I became more and more aware of the niches of the park. The tendencies, such as avoiding going on Pirates of the Caribbean or Haunted Mansion in the midday, or saving Splash Mountain or Grizzly River Run for the very last ride, became routine. The park was no longer a bulking treasure trove of awe-striking wonder, but a machine that ran smoothly and in a way that could be comprehended.
Did that take away the magic for me? In a way, yes. I did not hold the same incredulous disbelief when I was in the parks. However, I still was amazed every time I walked in the gates. But I knew what was going to happen. It was likely that I had even planned the ride path of the day. Getting from point A to point B in the park was my responsibility, and I was thankful for it. Disneyland was, and always has been, my happiest place, and I will never let go of the wonder it has brought me. I only hope that I can somehow repay it back to Disney by working there sometime in the future.
