On Tuesday evening, the article popped up from my local East Tennessee news station: Disney to lay off 28,000 employees at its parks in California, Florida. As I’ve scrolled through Facebook and Instagram the past two days, my feed is filled with Cast Member friends sharing that they were no longer employed by Disney. These included some of the best Cast Members I’ve ever known. People who trained me, worked along side me, encouraged me, and showed me what magic magic truly looks like. Without these people, my college program wouldn’t have been as successful and I wouldn’t be who I am today. I just can’t imagine a Disney without them.
To all my friends who got the call, I’m so terribly sorry. While I don’t know exactly what you’re feeling, I can imagine how hard it is. I knew when my time with Disney was coming to an end and I still cried my eyes out. I can’t imagine having your time cut short in this way. I’m heartbroken for each of you.
I do want you to know, each of you have incredible things in store for your future! I know it might not feel like it right now. 2020 as a whole has felt like one hurdle after another in a never ending race of doom. But I have hope. That after all this, you’ll be more resilient. You’ll find your next dream and chase it with the amazing abilities you carry. You’re experiences and knowledge gained from working for Disney will set you up for so many further successes. It may take time, but you’ll get.
So, keep making magic in your own way in the meantime. Do what you love. Keep chasing your dreams knowing that you are more than capable of achieving whatever you set your mind to. I believe in you and so do so many others. You wouldn’t have been hired at Disney in the first place if there wasn’t something special about you! Don’t forget that. This goes to all the Cast Members, those I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and those I haven’t. You’re all magical people!
While you’re facing these changes, know that I’m here for you. Even if we haven’t spoken since I left Florida, please reach out to me! I love talking to people and re-connecting! I’m more than happy to help in any way that I can. I can listen to you vent, give the advice that I can, or reminisce on good times that bring smiles to our faces. Whatever you need, I’m here and I’m, cheering you on.
While I can’t imagine what you’re all going through right now, I will be here to support you. Thank you for making the most wonderful magic.
❤ / Bails