“Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, for ever and ever. Amen.” – Ephesians 3:20-21
One of the most beloved films of all time is Walt Disney’s Snow White. This amazing film premiered on December 21, 1937. It was an immediate success. This was Walt Disney’s first full-length film. It was also the first full-length animated film of its kind. For almost 80 years, this classic film has captured the imaginations of its viewers while teaching us to sing amazing songs like, “Whistle While You Work.” Snow White is truly an amazing piece of movie history.
Today, this wonderful movie is considered a classic. Before it was released in 1937, many people told Walt Disney it was going to be flop. No one had ever produced a full-length animated film. People could not imagine that it would be a success. Walt’s brother, Roy and his wife, Lillian, tried to talk him out of what they predicted would be a “terrible investment.” Walt Disney had a vision, and he was not going to be talked out of making his dream come true.
Disney invested just over $250,000 and production began on Snow White in 1934. The eventual cost of the film would be well over 1 million. Disney had to mortgage his home to keep the production going. It was a tremendous risk.
In the first year after the release of Snow White, the film grossed over 8 million. That was an amazing amount of money, considering it was during the Great Depression. It became a film that helped launch a modern business empire. To say Walt Disney’s film was a success is an understatement. Since it opened in 1937, Snow White has grossed over $418 million.
Walt Disney was a person with a very active imagination. His success came because he was willing to take a risk, and see his dreams become a reality.
God has given each of us the gift of imagination and dreams. What is stopping you from making your dreams come true? What is preventing you from seeking joy as you live life to the fullest? Disney had critics. He had many who told him to give up his dreams. We are all blessed because he took a risk. Don’t let your critics and your own fears stop you from finding joy.
Dream big dreams and, “Off to work we go.”
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
