There are many ways to experience a vacation and one thing that often goes overlooked is a random act of kindness. This underground phenomenon has been happening well before the movie, “Pay It Forward” ever graced the screen, but the advancement of the awareness is promising. What is a “RAK” and how can you do it at Disney World? I’m glad you asked…
Giving a balloon to a child on your last day
You can’t take it with you if you’re leaving Florida on a plane and besides, it teaches your child to share while being social.
Helping an uninformed family
It takes less than a minute and can be done cordially, “I’m sorry to interrupt, but I overheard your conversation… we just left Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and since it was down, you’ll get a FastPass voucher for a later return or you can use the voucher for any other attraction at any time for the rest of the day.” Pro tip: if they’re trying to do something basic like “see Anna and Elsa at Princess Fairy Tale Hall” or “Take the monorail to Hollywood Studios“, I’d suggest leaving ones like these alone.
Passing the time on a stalled attraction
If you can do a good Disney character impression, play a verbal game like, “I, Spy”, or just engage in a conversation about what they like about Disney so far, easing the anxiety that happens on a stalled attraction can definitely help someone’s day.
Maybe you’re just waiting for your boat to be cleared and you’re getting pelted with the waterfall on Splash Mountain… have fun with it, don’t get upset. Learn from your mistakes and pass it on… “Don’t sit in the front of the boat on Pirates or you’ll get drenched today!”
Handing out “Thank You” cards
If a cast member has helped you and they have gone above and beyond their job in your opinion, it’s easy to recognize them with a thank you card (made before your trip). You could also make “Thank You for Your Service” cards in case you see veterans on vacation. Look for them at the Flag Retreat in Magic Kingdom!
Give your parade viewing spot up to a child
You’re taller than them, they are not allowed on their parent’s shoulders, and their favorite character is about to roll by, so give up your parade viewing spot to them!
It’s not like fireworks, where everyone just looks up and they have a larger viewing space; parades are different. Kids aren’t allowed to stand on top of trash cans either. Common sense, people!
Suggest meals at a restaurant while waiting in a queue
Have you had the braised pork here at Be Our Guest? It’s awesome! I don’t like onions, but the way the French Onion soup is prepared, I just devoured mine the last time we were here! I heard they changed the recipe for the “grey stuff”, so we we opted for a dessert we haven’t tried yet. Which dining plan are you on? Which park are you visiting tomorrow? Oh, no…don’t waste a quick service meal at Sunshine Seasons… be brave and walk to World Showcase!
Please, keep in mind that some folks don’t like to be bothered or talk a lot, so if their answers seem short or they have “that look” on their face, you better back down quickly and let that sleeping dog lie (as they say in the south). There will be plenty of other opportunities to interact with guests. Be safe and have fun!
