You Don’t Know Until You Know

People can describe an experience in vivid detail, but until you live it yourself, you can’t fully understand the emotions, joy, and meaning it holds.

Recently, I had the privilege of serving as a chaperone for a special outing to Kings Island. This wasn’t just a day at an amusement park—it was a celebration for more than 50 graduates of our 14-week B.R.I.D.G.E.® program. Students from six Cincinnati-area high schools earned this experience through their commitment to personal growth, self-discovery, and perseverance, even when conversations became difficult or deeply personal.

The day began bright and early, with three buses picking up students before 9 a.m. During the ride, many of the girls sat quietly, gazing out the windows as we traveled north. But the moment we arrived at Kings Island, everything changed. Excitement filled the air. Laughter replaced silence. Friends gathered together, eager to make the most of the day ahead.

The surprises started immediately. In addition to unlimited rides, each student received a Premium All-Day Dining wristband. Watching their reactions when they realized what that meant was priceless.

After dividing into smaller groups, my fellow volunteer chaperone, Shannon, and I set off with ten students to explore the park.

What struck me most throughout the day was how many of the girls were experiencing Kings Island for the very first time. Despite growing up in Cincinnati, they had never had the opportunity to visit. Watching someone experience a place like this for the first time is something special. The joy is genuine, the excitement is contagious, and for a moment, the worries of everyday life fade into the background.

As the day unfolded, I found myself reflecting on what the experience meant beyond the rides and attractions.

Walls came down.
Girls who began the day quiet and reserved gradually opened up. By the afternoon, they were laughing together, sharing stories, and enjoying Dippin’ Dots with new friends.

Real conversations happened.
I learned about their dreams, favorite subjects, siblings, and plans for the future. These weren't surface-level interactions; they were authentic moments of connection.

Honesty prevailed.
One student admitted she was exhausted after waking up early to care for her younger brother while her mother worked. She simply needed a quiet moment, a short nap, and a little caffeine to recharge. Her story was a reminder of the responsibilities many of these young women carry every day.

Kindness was everywhere.
Several girls used their spending money to buy small gifts for younger siblings waiting at home. Others offered to share their meals with me when my lunch choice turned out to be less than impressive. Their generosity spoke volumes about their character.

Challenges didn't steal the day.
One student learned her father's car had been towed. Another experienced a breakup. Another was unable to ride some attractions due to ride restraints. Yet despite these disappointments, each girl chose to embrace the day and focus on the fun, demonstrating remarkable resilience.

Flexibility won the day.
With a group this large, coordinating meals was no small task. Some students chose Skyline, others LaRosa’s or the Cantina. Everyone adjusted, accommodated one another, and made sure each person could enjoy the experience they wanted.

By the end of the day, I realized the greatest reward wasn't watching the girls ride roller coasters. It was witnessing confidence grow, friendships deepen, and joy take center stage.

Kings Island provided the backdrop, but the real story was about connection, resilience, and the power of creating opportunities for young women to simply be kids, celebrate their accomplishments, and enjoy a day they had earned.

Sometimes, you truly don't know until you know. And now, I know just how meaningful a single day can be.