YOU Can Make a Difference...So Do It!

One thing I believe more than anything is that most people underestimate the difference they can make in another person’s life. Great leader’s don’t underestimate this. Adopt a can do attitude and go out every day and make a difference in as many lives as you can. The following letter sent to me a few years ago shows the power of one…..Lee

Dear Lee

I visited the Walt Disney World® Resort with my little son on a Make-A-Wish trip to see Lilo and Stitch.  Since that time my sweet little son passed away.  Is there any way that you can recognize Lilo and Stitch at the Meet and Greet on the morning of October 25? 

They opened the Meet and Greet early, so that my son could have a chance to complete his wish by getting a chance to meet, play, and dance with Lilo and Stitch.  My son wanted a Stitch of his own, so for that one morning he had that opportunity.   I wanted Lilo and Stitch and the ones who helped set it up to know that they gave a wonderful gift to this very wonderful little boy and to us:  his mother, sister, and brother who he left behind.  We were given the gift of a “magic” memory. 

My son smiled for an entire week after that special trip with its very special Lilo and Stitch moment.  He smiled in spite of increasing discomfort . . . and when he passed away on Sunday morning with a smile on his lips, it was with his Lilo and Stitch movie playing in the background with Stitch telling Nani, “‘Ohana means family . . . and family means nobody gets left behind—or forgotten!”

Please contact these individuals personally and let them all know just how special they are.

Sincerely,

  While this letter is sad, it is at the same time uplifting.  I wanted each one of you to see this letter so that you more fully understand the power you have to make a difference in people’s lives.

This family, during their grief, found the time to write to us to let us know how much they appreciate what the Walt Disney World® Cast did for their son and for their entire family   . . . and that they are glad to have that “magical” memory of their visit with Lilo and Stitch.  Never, ever underestimate the power that you have to create “magical” memories for our Guests!   . . . Lee

PS:  Here is a recent quote from one of our fellow Cast Members that was found on a Disney Fan Web site:  “One person doing his or her job to the best of his or her ability . . . well let’s face it, won’t make a difference.  But FIFTY THOUSAND CAST MEMBERS, well, that would be awesome.”

I like the quote; but as the letter above points out, one person can make a difference to one family or one individual . . . but it would be awesome if we all did it time after time . . . and day after day . . . for each and every Guest!   . . . Lee