Gems of Epcot - China

Epcot remains our favorite Disney park in Florida. It certainly isn't as spectacular or fresh as it was in the early years, but it is still quite the crowd pleaser. The simple charms of World Showcase may begin with Mexico on one side and Canada on the other. The Eiffel Tower may beckon from across the lagoon with its extremely seductive personality, beautiful buildings, and tempting treats.

However, one of the most beautiful and serene pavillions continues to be China. The 360 degree film continues to impress me, making me long for a trip to the Great Wall and other delights. The architecture is a once stunning and subtle. The people quiet and gentle, the gardens intriguing (and unfortunately, the food very average). With each visit to the park, I increasingly appreciate and understand what the Imagineers have accomplished. It is the essence of China that is captured here- in a quiet corner of the World far removed from the Disney crowds- and from the oppressive politics of a real country still discovering how best to serve its citizens.
(Artwork copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Walt Disney Studios Paris: The Little Park That Could?

Maybe I called it too soon on this one.

The recent additions to Paris' Walt Disney Studios have successfully brought in the crowds. Crush's Coaster and Cars Race Rally began something good that culminated with the relatively recent opening of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. The former two attractions brought much charm and a family focus to a rather dismal area of the park. The latter attraction and the surrounding area is heavy on the theming and strongly executed, something this park was poorly lacking.

From most accounts, guests seem to be spending more time here. That's a good thing. With response so positive, more elaborate plans are ready to be approved. This expansion and enhancement proves what Imagineering can do to take a bare bones park and turn it into one that feels like it belongs in the Disney family. Could even be a model for what the Imagineers hope to accomplish with the also quickly and cheaply built California Adventure. I guess I've learned an important lesson: Never underestimate the underdog!

(Artwork copyright The Walt Disney Company)

Taking Risks

As I sat in the emergency room waiting for the doctor to sew up my hand, my friend Mike and I had to laugh. Six stitches across my thumb due to one false move in cutting a metal stud for my basement! I always knew I wasn’t born a construction worker. I didn’t need this reminder. Yet God called had me out of my comfort zone once again to be involved in this project at a level I was unskilled in. Interestingly enough, prior to cutting the first metal stud, I stopped and prayed for God’s safety and protection. I am afraid of sharp objects and don’t do well with them. (I don’t even shave all that great!) What happened? The result of taking a risk.

The Biblical teachings on living an abundant life are having an impact on me. God has been speaking to me about risk-taking being part of living a faith-filled life. I am trying to figure out how that applies to me. Being obedient to what we know God to be telling is integrity.

The entire Bible is filled with accounts of risk takers for God. In the book of Acts, (chapter 20:7-12,) Paul is once again used dramatically. While listening to him preach a very lengthy sermon, a young man named Eutychus dozed off around midnight and fell down. Other than embarrassment, this usually wouldn’t be too much of an issue. Except Eutychus was sitting in a window on the third story. His friends pronounce him dead. Paul rushes to the ground, throws his arms around Eutychus and tells everyone present that he is alive- which is now true thanks to God, and to Paul’s obedience. In being so bold, Paul took a great risk that he heard God correctly. Certainly, Paul was a gifted speaker, but imagine how those listening even more so considered the truth of his words after this resurrection! (And like some preachers, Paul then continued talking until daylight!) Point being, Paul’s risk brought God glory. Not only were people more willing to believe, you can bet Paul’s own faith was deepened.

Not every risk brings such spectacular results. What about my hand? Hadn’t I prayed for safety? God was faithful to me. No cut tendons, no nerve damage, no loss of mobility. But no one was raised from the dead, either. The truth is that sometimes risk brings results we didn’t plan for- tough circumstances or even anger from others. (Overseas missionaries get this all the time!) What did I learn or accomplish? Haven’t a clue. But this I do know: when God leads, I would rather risk then let my fear keep me from obedience. To me, that is the biggest part of living an abundant life-obedience.

What about you? What does risk taking look like in your life? Are you listening or watching for God to challenge you in a new way? What would obedience bring?

Can you live with the chance of failure? Can you make that leap of faith? Ask God to lead you and give you the strength to jump. You can be sure the abundant life is what He has waiting for you.

Dumbing Down the Resort

In one of the more foolish moves made by Disney management for the Florida resort, the green light was given for the Pop Century Resort. The concept art shown above may look appealing, but the final result is guilty of bringing the property to an all time low. It is the kind of project that would have fit perfectly with California Adventure at its opening!

Thankfully, an additional section of the motel complex was left unfinished. If Disney were truly wise, wanting to show a bit of class and a proving a commitment to return to the glory days of old, they would bulldoze the leftovers and let the land return to its original state. This would signal an intelligent shift had taken place. It is certainly not asking too much.

Man of Fine Character

Husband, professor, son, brother, man. That's my son! What a fine young man he is. On this his 25th birthday, I want to thank him for being who he is. A thoughtful and considerate human being, a scholar, a man of faith and one of good character. What more could a Dad ask for- either heavenly or earthly? Happy birthday, and here is to many more years ahead. With love, from your Dad.

Running a Successful Race

In the last couple of years, running on the treadmill has become a regular form of exercise for me. Whether it is due to my own sense of clumsiness or desperation, I always stop and pray as I first get on it. “Lord, protect me, and help me finish the race and finish well.” I pray as I run, putting to the Lord the burdens I carry. All this running gives me plenty of time to think about my life and where I am.

Even though I can see my body changing over time, I cannot physically see how my spirit is changing and growing. But by my actions, I can gauge who I am becoming.

My words reflect what I have been taking in: the TV shows and movies I watch, the books read, the music heard. My priorities and values mirror the company I keep- another good reason to continue in fellowship- and the attitudes of my heart reflect how I’ve used my time. I am taking on the image of my influences- whether I like it or not.

If I am going to finish my race well, I need to deliberately choose who and what is molding me. This goes way beyond accountability. We’re not only talking accountability, but also receiving wise counsel, vulnerability with the Lord, and making right choices that please Him.

Who and what are molding you?

Look back at this recent season of time. Are old sin patterns slipping back in or are you finding increasing victory? That’s a good indicator of where you are spiritually and who you are becoming. Are your choices and priorities reflecting a desire to become more like your Lord Jesus or do they reflect other things in your heart? Put another way- is there anything crowding out your relationship with Jesus? Chances are, if you are too busy or too tired, something’s gotta go. If nothing changes, it is only a matter of time before the walls come crashing down.

We serve a jealous God who wants intimacy with us. He prizes his relationship with you. Keep pressing in and don’t give in. Call out for help to God. He will hear you. He wants to see you make it and finish the race well. That means finish the race looking like Jesus.

Energize Us

In my collection of Disney memorabilia, I have a special appreciation for the pieces related to EPCOT Center. Why? Never again would anything this special be attempted. At its opening in 1982, this amazing, one-of-a-kind park was at once future oriented, optimistic, and sweetly charming. EPCOT Center represented everything wonderful that could be accomplished by the Imagineers without an animated character in sight! Discovery, wonder, and exploration of realms real and yet to be found awaited each visitor.

This concept from a corporate preview booklet shows the main entrance of the Universe of Energy attraction in Future World. Long before Hollywood celebrities invaded Disney's theme park attractions, this groundbreaking pavillion combined a surprising new way to transport guests into the story and then told it through a creative use of film, music, and animatronics.

My last visit to Energy revealed this pavillion needs a bit of an overhaul. Animatronics didn't work, sets seemed stale, and the main characters are past their prime. Hopefully, it is on the list of projects to revitalize Epcot. This great attraction deserves some attention without being turned into just another thrill ride or one more animated film promotion.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Discovery Bay Resurfaces

The infamous Discovery Bay was a pet project of Imagineer extraordinaire Tony Baxter. Recalling a turn of the century San Francisco Bay era, the centerpiece was to be the magnificent Island at the Top of the World attraction. It was not to be. The movie on which the key attraction was based became a relative flop at the theaters causing Disney executives to bring the project to a halt, effectively putting an end to the ambitious Disneyland addition and boat ride.

At Disney, however, as many great stories and attractions survive are as killed, but many return in another manner. A decade and half later, Baxter revived part of the project as part of Disneyland Paris' Discoveryland. A brilliant move and a beautiful and unique addition to the European masterpiece.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

One Busy Guy

According to our friends over at E-Train Station, Mr. Elliott Yamin has alot on his plate these days. In Japan, his album is finally out and doing great-the disc includes a new song Home, (not the Michael Buble' megahit). His souped up Christmas album My Kind of Holiday will soon be easy to find. Last and certainly not least, the man's cutting a new album due for Spring 2009 release. Of course his fans have wish list favories, and I am not an exception. My choice? A studio version of "A House is Not a Home", the old Burt Bacharach/Luther Vandross classic.

Pressing On

Maybe it is just an “occupational hazard”. Or maybe its just the way life is at the moment. Regardless, it seems as if I’m hearing that many of us are currently overwhelmed by the circumstances of life. Does it seem that your situation is more than you can bear? Do fear and worry consume you when you think about the problem or the future? Certainly, you are not alone. The saints and heroes of the Old Testament had to deal with the same stuff.

Look at Joshua. He was eventually appointed the commander of Moses, and then was later designated his successor. And what a charge he had! Lead an unruly people whose hearts tended to stray from the Lord, and conquer the strong enemies of the land. No small task. Amazingly, the following admonition is repeated throughout the book of Joshua:

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:8-9)

This theme of trusting God in the face of fear is repeated throughout the book for a reason. Joshua struggled with fear, yet he was the man God called to do the work that needed to be done. We are in the same position today.

Let’s face it. Life can be really hard at times. In the middle of a difficult season, it is very easy to forget God’s promises to us or even that He cares about us. Yet, that does not take away from the fact that our Lord has given each of us something to do; something that in the process will be used to conform us to the image of Christ. Certainly, Jesus promised to always be with us, even to the end. We must take him at his word. The only other choice leads to a life of unrest in the deep places of our hearts.

So, what shall it be? Drop back or press forward. Let's grab our friends, lock arms together, pray for and encourage one another. Remind your friends of God’s promises and His faithfulness to us. Let’s stay strong and not give up, doing what He has put before us for His glory and His honor.

Sleeping Beauty Awakening Soon

Coming back to a Disney theme park near you- if you live in Anaheim, that is. The Sleeping Beauty Castle Walk Thru was one great little addition to the park. Certainly not an "E" ticket and not something to plan a visit for, it is one of the quiet, understated gems that give Disneyland the charm that is lacking in Florida's Magic Kingdom. It's return is more than welcome. Maybe, just maybe, this is the beginning of restoring all those wonderful "hidden" attractions that kept Walt's touch in the original Kingdom. We can only hope. It's in the hands of Imagineer Tony Baxter, so I'm betting it turns out great.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Promises, Promises

Well, Mr. President-elect, congratulations. You have succeeded in winning the confidence of the majority of voting Americans. Like each man before you, the job will be overwhelming and require your strenuous commitment. You have made many promises, and now is the time to watch what happens.

You have referred to yourself as a man of faith. Good- you will need God. You'll need Him more than any party's platform. There is much work to do in rebuilding America after campaigns that have run far too long and been far too nasty. And like each president before you, you will have my prayers. I promise.

Wisdom from Mr. Lincoln

President Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address contains insights that are just as valid today as it was in 1865. Our current circumstances are very different but his wisdom eternal.
-------------------------------------------------

At this second appearing to take the oath of the presidential office, there is less occasion for an extended address than there was at the first. Then a statement, somewhat in detail, of a course to be pursued, seemed fitting and proper. Now, at the expiration of four years, during which public declarations have been constantly called forth on every point and phase of the great contest which still absorbs the attention, and engrosses the energies of the nation, little that is new could be presented. The progress of our arms, upon which all else chiefly depends, is as well known to the public as to myself; and it is, I trust, reasonably satisfactory and encouraging to all. With high hope for the future, no prediction in regard to it is ventured.

On the occasion corresponding to this four years ago, all thoughts were anxiously directed to an impending civil war. All dreaded it--all sought to avert it. While the inaugeral [sic] address was being delivered from this place, devoted altogether to saving the Union without war, insurgent agents were in the city seeking to destroy it without war--seeking to dissole [sic] the Union, and divide effects, by negotiation. Both parties deprecated war; but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive; and the other would accept war rather than let it perish. And the war came.

One eighth of the whole population were colored slaves, not distributed generally over the Union, but localized in the Southern part of it. These slaves constituted a peculiar and powerful interest. All knew that this interest was, somehow, the cause of the war. To strengthen, perpetuate, and extend this interest was the object for which the insurgents would rend the Union, even by war; while the government claimed no right to do more than to restrict the territorial enlargement of it. Neither party expected for the war, the magnitude, or the duration, which it has already attained. Neither anticipated that the cause of the conflict might cease with, or even before, the conflict itself should cease. Each looked for an easier triumph, and a result less fundamental and astounding. Both read the same Bible, and pray to the same God; and each invokes His aid against the other. It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God's assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men's faces; but let us judge not that we be not judged. The prayers of both could not be answered; that of neither has been answered fully. The Almighty has his own purposes. "Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!" If we shall suppose that American Slavery is one of those offences which, in the providence of God, must needs come, but which, having continued through His appointed time, He now wills to remove, and that He gives to both North and South, this terrible war, as the woe due to those by whom the offence came, shall we discern therein any departure from those divine attributes which the believers in a Living God always ascribe to Him? Fondly do we hope--fervently do we pray--that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue, until all the wealth piled by the bond-man's two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash, shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said "the judgments of the Lord, are true and righteous altogether"

With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation's wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan--to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations.

Another Year, Another Election

Ambition. Greed. Pride. All these elements are found in any Presidential election and in various amounts within the candidates themselves. It’s no different this time.

Before anyone assumes I am throwing stones, be assured I’m not. This is the human condition. I find these in me, and if you look deep enough, you’ll find them in you as well. Let’s be honest: it’s ugly in there. It gets even worse when we mix all this and do it in the name of God or use Him to promote our agendas. This too, is the nature of politics and our human sinful nature.

“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.” These words from the great apostle Paul are a good reminder for keeping our focus on God and His ways as we live in a world governed by imperfect men and women who are trying the best they can to do what they think is right.

Come Wednesday morning, regardless of who wins the election, I will support this President with my prayers. He will be my President even if I did not support him with my vote. Both men have invoked God and expressed belief in Jesus as their foundation. May it truly be so as one of them moves into a very tough job.

Polynesian Village Plans

All this talk of Disney building at the Ko O'lina resort area got me thinking about Disney's original hotel plans for Florida. The Contemporary Resort was first named "Tempo Bay", with the second planned resort, the "Polynesian Village" forming the first two resorts to be built. This seldom seen piece of art shows a high-rise project instead of the warmer, lower, more island friendly feel of what the public found on the property in 1971.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)