Meeting characters is one of the best parts of the Disney Parks experience. Even as an adult, I will have a fully earnest conversation with Donald Duck, and I will be better for it. Some kids are really scared of characters, especially the ones in mascot costumes, and I totally understand. It’s freaky to see a figure you’ve only seen in 2D animation rendered giant, furry, alive, and ready to hug you. If you were a baby who scream-cried when they saw Mickey for the first time, you’ve got nothing to be ashamed of.

As a former high school mascot, I have mad respect for the Disney employees inside fursuits. When I was 17, I thought that getting in a dragon costume in the Texas heat of September and October would be a piece of cake, but I was sorely mistaken. I was the worst mascot ever, and it made me respect the incredible Disney performers who bring our favorite characters to life so much more.