Among many people in the world, there are some originals. Walt Disney is one of those originals. He was a unique individual full of a childlike outlook of life. And, today is his birthday.
Walt Disney was born in 1901 in Chicago, IL. His family would move to a variety of places including Marceline, MO. Marceline would become the inspiration of Main Street at the Disney parks.
When I go to a variety of big Disney events I can’t help but wonder if he knew what he was building. For many, Disney has provided smiles and fond memories. Disney has given inspiration to many. Among much of the inspiration creativity is the biggest area of contribution that Walt Disney and the company has had. Mr. Disney had many firsts in filmmaking and theme park innovations.
Walt Disney was a visionary. He was someone that looked to the future to make communities better for everyone. He was a true renaissance man who wasn’t just fascinated with art, but science tickled his fancy too. Tomorrowland and the respective episodes of the Disneyland show explore this fascination, and probably inspired some current scientists.
Among his life, Mickey Mouse could be his greatest contribution to the world. The character is widely known, and brings laughter and enjoyment to millions, if not billions. Of the little mouse, Walt has said this:
“The life and ventures of Mickey Mouse have been closely bound up with my own personal and professional life. It is understandable that I should have sentimental attachment for the little personage who played so big a part in the course of Disney Productions and has been so happily accepted as an amusing friend wherever films are shown around the world. He still speaks for me and I still speak for him.”
What he’s referring to is how Mickey Mouse came about. And to sum it up, Mickey was born out of tragedy. Walt Disney had lost his first famous character, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. But, he didn’t give up. Walt came up with Mickey Mouse on a train ride back from the meeting where he found out his loss. Walt had an entrepreneurial and innovative spirit, and it was shown its greatest strength in his creation of Mickey. Out of something terrible, Walt Disney didn’t wallow in pity or frustration, but let creativity take its course to make one of the most known characters in the world.
And, so, I will say happy birthday, Walt Disney! And a thanks to making characters, theme parks, and even a company that has brought many enjoyable memories for me and others over many years!
