It's a very special day today! On this day in 1955 (July 17th), Walt Disney introduced the world to Disneyland! I realize not everyone is a fan! (Though that is one I will never understand!) But stay with me on this one, it's not what you might think!
I began to think about all the exceptional moments, the memories, and experiences that in fact shaped my life! When I was very young Disneyland was for me like everyone else. The one place, that one special vacation that every kid begged to go on! But as I grew up and matured, for me that did not change much! It was in my blood, I was hooked, I was and still am the #DisneyGirl.
Then I began to think about something that sort of "blew my mind"! What if~ what if there never was a Walt Disney? We never received that special "gift of magic"? My mind began to race. I tried to envision Southern California with NO Disneyland? Think about it... no one would even know where Anaheim is, or would even have a reason to know about it!
There is an entire generation (two now actually), that do not know life with out Disneyland and Walt Disney World! But at the same time; those youngest do not have a clue really who Walt Disney was, and how these amazing parks even came to be. It was then that I wondered; would Walt understand, would he approve?
There have been significant changes on both coasts over the years. But none as dramatic as in the past 20 years for sure. As someone who has been very closely connected now to Disney (my business had a contract directly with Disney until a few years ago), I have seen huge changes especially in "upper level" management. Then also seeing icons in the world that was Walt's, including Walt himself pass away. Some of you may be familiar with the infamous "Old Men", the imagineers that worked side-by-side with Walt. In the past few years we lost the last of these very special men; Mr. Marty Sklar, and Mr. Xavier 'X' Atencio. My heart sank, especially when Mr. Sklar passed away. I had the great privilege of meeting this legend! I used to always say; "The day that Marty Sklar passes, I fear for the future of Disney." He was the "anchor", he was a reminder daily to all the "newbies" at Disney of what Walt's dream was, and kept them true to that dream. I hate to say that I think I may have been right.
Don't get me wrong! Disneyland, Walt Disney World... I don't think they are going anywhere! But are they still something Walt would be proud of today? I can't help but wonder. With the opening of Star Wars; Galaxy's Edge, with alcohol in Disneyland? (I know VERY controversial subject!) But this is one of those topics that I would give anything to have five minutes to talk with Walt Disney- or even Marty Sklar! Then there is the recent "behavioral" changes in the guests! OMG~ I know Walt is turning in his grave! Guests at his park would have never~ ever behaved so horribly! WHY... why do people think it's okay~ it's just people today?
I know there will always be~ and we must always have change. Most of the changes at the parks have been great! But some scare me, worry me, because of the direction they are pointed. I completely believe; Disneyland, and all things Disney, are a treasure! Not just a national treasure. But a true gift that we all love and share. For that reason I think we should all protect it, respect it, and keep it in our hearts. Never forget why and how it came to life, and all the generations that have enjoyed it and made it a part of their lives.
Yes... I truly am a Disney Girl, and I am very proud of it! It is my hope and prayer that it will always mean as much to future generations!
One of my favorite quotes from Walt Disney;
"All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them."
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