The Soundtrack of Imagination: Walt Disney’s Musical Vision

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From the humble beginnings of a whistling steamboat to the sprawling, immersive worlds of modern theme parks, the Walt Disney Company has masterfully woven music into the very fabric of its storytelling. As an amateur Disney historian dedicated to understanding all the many facets of the enduring legacy of Walt Disney as well as a music lover, I can attest that music has been far more than a mere accompaniment; it’s the very heartbeat of the Disney brand, a powerful tool for emotional connection and brand building that has resonated across generations.

My personal connection to Walt Disney and music go back to Mary Poppins, the first Walt Disney movie I can remember seeing in a theater in 1964. An amazing visual feast, it also contains the earliest Walt Disney music from my memories.

Mary Poppins was produced as a full-scale musical, and the musical talents of the lyric and song writers (Bob and Dick Sherman) and the arranger (Irwin Kostal) paired beautifully with the voice of actress Julie Andrews to become the quintessential Walt Disney film. Critic Leonard Maltin commented that “Every song in the film suits its context perfectly and conveys emotions and ideas otherwise unexpressed in the dialogue.”

From my perspective even 61 years later, Mary Poppins represents the best of what Walt Disney and the entire Disney studio create with its magical blend of story, animation, live action, and of course, music.

What made the music of Disney’s movies so magical?

In this Wednesday Weekly Reader, I’m going to look at the magic of Disney music through the pages of three books:

The Musical World of Walt Disney presents the stories behind the music of Disney films, television productions, and other entertainment projects – how the songs were composed, why certain songs were created, the role that music played within the films, and a look at the people responsible for the classic words and music.

Whether you have played, sung, whistled, or even hummed any of the memorable Disney songs, you’ll enjoy takin a trip through Disney’s musical world.

The colorful illustrations and photographs of classic Disney characters included in the book will take on new meaning as the evolution of the music is traced throughout the years of Disney film production.

Here’s your ticket to the magical kingdom of Disney music; – a book that why entire family will enjoy as you explore the fascinating Musical World of Walt Disney.

In Music in Disney’s Animated Features James Bohn investigates how music functions in Disney animated films and identifies several vanguard techniques used in them. In addition, he also presents a history of music in Disney animated films, as well as biographical information on several of the Walt Disney Studios’ seminal composers.

The popularity and critical acclaim of Disney animated features truly is built as much on music as it is on animation. Beginning with Steamboat Willie and continuing through all of the animated features created under Disney’s personal supervision, music was the organizing element of Disney’s animation. Songs establish character, aid in narrative, and fashion the backbone of the Studios’ movies from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs through The Jungle Book and beyond.

Bohn underscores these points while presenting a detailed history of music in Disney’s animated films. The book includes research done at the Walt Disney Archives as well as materials gathered from numerous other facilities. In his research of the Studios’ notable composers, Bohn includes perspectives from family members, thus lending a personal dimension to his presentation of the magical Studios’ musical history. The volume’s numerous musical examples demonstrate techniques used throughout the Studios’ animated classics.

Songs written for Disney productions over the decades have become a potent part of American popular culture. Since most Americans first discovered these songs in their youth, they hold a special place in one’s consciousness. 

The Disney Song Encyclopedia describes and discusses hundreds of famous and not-so-famous songs from Disney films, television, Broadway, and theme parks from the 1930s to the present day. Over 900 songs are given individual entries and presented in alphabetical order. The songwriters and original singers are identified, as well as the source of the song and other venues in which it might have been used over the years. Notable recordings of the song are also listed. 

But most important, the song is described and what makes it memorable is discussed. This is not a reference list but a true encyclopedia of Disney songs. The book also contains a preface describing the criteria for selecting the songs, a glossary of song terms, a list of all the Disney songs and their sources, a songwriter’s directory in which every song by each composer/lyricist is listed, a bibliography, a guide to recordings and DVDs of Disney productions, and an index of people and titles.

Walt Disney, a man of profound intuition and artistic vision, understood the transformative power of sound. In Steamboat Willie (1928), the synchronized clanging and jaunty melodies weren’t just a novelty; they were a revelation. They imbued the animated world with a sense of life and immediacy, forging a direct emotional link with the audience. This early innovation set the stage for Disney’s unwavering commitment to musical excellence, a commitment that has consistently placed music at the forefront of its creative endeavors.

Interestingly, Walt Disney had no formal musical training. He was primarily a cartoonist and filmmaker who recognized something profound: music could breathe life into animation. “There’s a terrific power to music,” Disney once told his staff “You can run these pictures and they’d be dragging and boring, but the minute you put music behind them, they have life and vitality they don’t get in any other way.” This understanding led him to devote significant attention to the musical aspects of his productions, despite his lack of technical musical knowledge.

Walt Disney possessed an uncanny ability to know exactly what style of music would enhance a particular scene. He encouraged his animators to study music, recognizing its natural rhythms as fundamental to creating compelling animation. Two of his legendary “nine old men,” Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, noted that music was “undoubtedly the most important addition” to any production, giving it “integrity, style, emphasis, meaning and unity.”

Music is undoubtedly the most important addition that will be made to the picture. It can do more to bring a production to life, to give it integrity, style, emphasis, meaning and unity, than any other single ingredient. With the surge of a full orchestra, there will be bigness and majesty and soaring spirits; with a nervous, fluttering melody line on a single instrument, or pulsating drumbeats, there will be agitation, apprehension, suspicion. Music can build tension in commonplace scenes or ease it in ones that have become visually too frightening.

Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, “Disney Animation: Illusion of Life”

Walt’s appreciation for music was so complete that he built entire films around it. Fantasia stands as perhaps his most ambitious musical project, challenging his animators to create visual interpretations of classical masterpieces. Under his guidance, Disney composers and songwriters continually pushed boundaries, developing innovative techniques for synchronizing music with animation – methods still used throughout the film industry today.

This pioneering spirit extended beyond mere technical achievements. Disney’s music typically carried messages of hope and touched universal human emotions. As one Disney songwriter observed, Walt’s most successful films “had heart” and “would reach out and touch one of our human emotions.” This emotional resonance helped ensure that Disney films weren’t just for children but rather touched the child in everyone.

The Disney musical tradition has continued to evolve long after Walt’s time. In the 1990s, the company successfully transitioned to Broadway, beginning with Beauty and the Beast and followed by critical successes like The Lion King. Simultaneously, home video and DVD releases brought Disney music directly into households worldwide, further cementing these songs in popular culture.

Even rival animators acknowledged Disney’s musical innovations. Chuck Jones of Warner Brothers fame noted that “practically every tool we use today was originated at the Disney studio.” Disney films didn’t simply evolve gradually – they made quantum leaps that took both animation and film music to new heights.

Walt Disney once wrote, “I cannot think of the pictorial story without thinking about the complementary music which will fulfill it.” As film historian Leonard Maltin observed, music wasn’t merely “a key ingredient” of Walt Disney’s success – it was “the foundation” of it. Though he couldn’t read music or play an instrument, Disney possessed an innate musicality and understood intuitively how music could enhance storytelling.

This emotional resonance is a cornerstone of the Disney brand. By tapping into universal emotions like love, loss, joy, and hope, Disney music creates a shared experience that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. When a child hears “A Whole New World” from Aladdin, they are not simply listening to a song; they are transported to a realm of wonder and possibility. This emotional connection fosters a sense of loyalty and affection for the Disney brand, creating lifelong fans who carry these cherished memories with them.

The strategic use of music in live-action films further reinforces this brand identity. While the transition from animation required a more nuanced approach, Disney successfully adapted its musical legacy for a new medium. The live-action Beauty and the Beast (2017) not only honored the beloved animated score but also expanded upon it, creating a richer, more immersive musical experience. The power of these musical revivals is immense, each song an emotional touchstone to preexisting beloved works, therefore enforcing brand loyalty, and the emotional response.

In the theme parks, music becomes an integral part of the immersive experience. From the nostalgic melodies of Main Street, U.S.A., to the adventurous themes of Adventureland, music is carefully curated to transport guests to different worlds. Attractions like “it’s a small world” rely on music to create a sense of unity and shared experience, while the “Grim Grinning Ghosts” theme from “The Haunted Mansion” adds a playful layer of spookiness to the ride. This careful orchestration of sound enhances the storytelling, creating a sense of wonder and excitement that leaves a lasting impression.

The reach of Disney music extends beyond the confines of its films and parks, permeating popular culture. Iconic songs have been covered by countless artists, featured in numerous films and television shows, and used to evoke emotions in countless everyday moments. This ubiquity reinforces the Disney brand as a cultural touchstone, a symbol of magic and emotional resonance.

In essence, music is the emotional glue that binds the Disney experience together. It’s the key that unlocks the door to imagination, the force that amplifies the joy, and the language that speaks to the heart. This unwavering commitment to musical excellence has been instrumental in building the Disney brand into a global icon, a symbol of magic and emotional connection that will continue to resonate for generations to come.

This musical magic continues to resonate today, providing an experience that’s accessible to people of all ages around the world. To experience Disney is, fundamentally, to experience music.

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.

Beyond the Page: C.S. Lewis on the Transformative Power of Reading

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A friend once asked me to define a true reader. Of course, I answered with a quote from a book:

I went on to share the source of the book, The Reading Life, by C.S. Lewis, and I want to share it here.

The revered teacher and bestselling author reflects on the power, importance, and joy of a life dedicated to reading books in this delightful collection drawn from his wide body of writings.

More than fifty years after his death, intellectual and teacher C. S. Lewis continues to speak to readers, thanks not only to his intellectual insights on Christianity but also his wondrous creative works and deep reflections on the literature that influenced his life. Beloved for his instructive novels including The Screwtape Letters, The Great Divorce, and The Chronicles of Narnia as well as his philosophical books that explored theology and Christian life, Lewis was a life-long writer and book lover.

Cultivated from his many essays, articles, and letters, as well as his classic works, The Reading Life provides guidance and reflections on the love and enjoyment of books. Engaging and enlightening, this well-rounded collection includes Lewis’ reflections on science fiction, why children’s literature is for readers of all ages, and why we should read two old books for every new one.

A window into the thoughts of one of the greatest public intellectuals of our time, this collection reveals not only why Lewis loved the written word, but what it means to learn through literature from one of our wisest and most enduring teachers.

C.S. Lewis’ The Reading Life is a carefully curated collection of his thoughts, essays, and correspondence about the art and joy of reading. Compiled posthumously from various sources, including letters, lectures, and previously published works, this volume offers readers a glimpse into the literary mind of one of the 20th century’s most influential Christian thinkers and writers.

The collection opens by establishing Lewis’s deeply personal relationship with books from childhood. Far from presenting reading as merely educational, Lewis reveals it as transformative and essential to his intellectual and spiritual formation. He recounts being “baptized” into the world of Norse mythology as a child, describing the profound way certain texts awakened his imagination and shaped his worldview.

Lewis distinguishes between different types of reading experiences throughout the collection. He contrasts what he calls “literary” reading – where one engages with a text for its inherent aesthetic qualities and transformative potential – with reading merely for information or distraction. Lewis argues passionately that the former holds greater value, allowing books to change us rather than merely entertaining or informing us.

One of the collection’s strengths is Lewis’s discussion of how to approach literature. He advocates for reading with receptivity and openness, suggesting that truly experiencing a book requires temporarily setting aside our own prejudices and assumptions. Lewis emphasizes that good reading involves surrender – allowing ourselves to be led by the author rather than imposing our interpretations from the outset.

Lewis also explores the relationship between reading and moral development. While he rejects the simplistic notion that reading “good” books automatically makes one virtuous, he acknowledges literature’s capacity to expand our moral imagination and help us understand perspectives beyond our own limited experience. His nuanced view recognizes literature’s power without overstating its moral effects.

The collection addresses practical aspects of reading as well. Lewis offers insights on rereading, suggesting that revisiting books is essential to truly understanding them. He discusses the value of reading older works, arguing that they provide necessary perspective to counter the cultural blindness of our own era. Lewis also tackles the sometimes intimidating prospect of reading “the classics,” providing encouraging advice for approaching difficult texts.

What makes The Reading Life particularly compelling is Lewis’s voice – erudite but accessible, passionate but reasoned. His writing exudes both intellectual rigor and childlike wonder. Whether discussing medieval literature or children’s stories, Lewis conveys the same infectious enthusiasm for the written word.

The collection’s most profound sections explore reading as a spiritual practice. Lewis suggests that literature can prepare us for divine encounters by awakening longing and helping us recognize beauty. While never suggesting that books replace religious experience, he positions them as potential conduits for transcendence.

Lewis’ Christian worldview and his literary preferences tend toward the classical and medieval. As such, some may find his perspectives on modern literature limited by his own historical context and personal taste. Additionally, the collection’s posthumous assembly means some thematic repetition occurs across selections.

The Reading Life is ultimately a celebration of literature’s capacity to expand our consciousness. Lewis portrays reading not as escapism but as a means of encountering reality more fully. Through books, he suggests, we can transcend the limitations of our individual perspective and experience the world through different eyes.

For those who already appreciate Lewis’s work, this collection provides valuable insights into the literary influences that shaped his thought. For newcomers, it offers an accessible introduction to Lewis’s brilliant mind and his approach to literature. For all readers, it serves as a compelling reminder of why we read and how books can transform our lives.

In an age of digital distraction and superficial content consumption, Lewis’s reflections on deep, attentive reading feel especially relevant. The Reading Life invites us to reconsider our relationship with books and challenges us to read not merely for information or entertainment but for transformation. It reminds us that the true value of reading lies not in the quantity of books we consume but in how deeply we allow them to shape us.

We want to see with other eyes, to imagine with other imaginations, to feel with other hearts, as well as with our own.

C.S. Lewis

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.

The Carousel of Progress: A Metaphor for American Aging

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As a longtime researcher of on the history of Walt Disney (the man), it’s fascinating to consider how an attraction he developed can serve as a lens through which to examine societal concepts, particularly those surrounding aging. I recently discovered a book that explored that concept, drawing on the themes present in Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress.

But before we get into that book in this week’s Wednesday Weekly Reader, you’ve got to understand the background of the Carousel of Progress.

Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress, a classic attraction found in the Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland, presents a unique perspective on the evolution of American life through the 20th century. Through its rotating stages, the attraction showcases how technological advancements have transformed the daily lives of a typical American family over four time periods. While ostensibly a celebration of progress, the Carousel of Progress also inadvertently offers a compelling metaphor for understanding evolving concepts of old age in the United States.

Walt Disney originally conceived concepts that became the show in 1958 as part of a new area at Disneyland Park in California called Edison Square. When the concept was abandoned, the idea was reimagined, eventually opening under the name “Progressland” at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair in the General Electric Pavilion.

With the classic song “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” by the Academy Award®-winning team of brothers Richard and Robert Sherman, the show was an instant hit. Following its success, the show moved to Disneyland Park and opened in 1967 as the Carousel of Progress. In 1973 it was closed and moved to Walt Disney World in Orlando.

In 1975, the attraction opened in Magic Kingdom park where it was rewritten and restaged with a new theme song, “The Best Time of Your Life.”

In the true spirit of progress, the show was reworked in 1994 to its initial incarnation with the original theme song intact – as a tribute to nostalgia.

The Carousel of Progress holds the record as the longest-running stage show in the history of American theater. It is one of the oldest attractions in the Walt Disney World Resort, and the oldest attraction at Walt Disney World to have been worked on by Walt Disney.

Despite its undeserved reputation of being outdated and boring, I have liked the Carousel of Progress since I unknowingly rode the attraction the year it opened in 1975; I was part of the year-long celebration of America’s Bicentennial that Walt Disney World staged beginning that summer, called “America on Parade.”

As a rising high school senior who had limited time in the park, the Carousel of Progress – along with Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Haunted Mansion were the four attractions I rode that day. Space Mountain aside (vertigo), those are the same attractions I’ve made sure to go on during every visit to the Magic Kingdom over the ensuing years.

Accordingly, I’ve remained interested in each of those attractions, and when any of them pop up in unexpected and unusual conversations almost 50 years later, I naturally explore them more!

The Carousel of Progress, Walt Disney’s animatronic celebration of technological advancement, takes visitors on a journey through the American century beginning in the late 1800s. We join a ‘typical” family as only Hollywood of the early 1960s can conceive: they navigate the wonders of electricity, household appliances, and eventually voice-activated home systems, all while the patriarch cheerfully reminds us that “there’s a great big beautiful tomorrow shining at the end of every day.”

This attraction embodies America’s once-unwavering faith in the marriage of capitalism and technology – a belief that progress was inevitable, linear, and universally beneficial. As audiences rotate from scene to scene, they witness how innovation solves yesterday’s problems while creating greater comfort, leisure, and prosperity.

But what happens when the carousel stops spinning? When progress falters, or when we discover that technological advancement hasn’t delivered on its promises for vast segments of society?

This is the territory author James Chappel explores in his provocative new work Golden Years: How American Invented and Reinvented Old Age. Utilizing Disney’s attraction as a metaphor in his introduction, Chappel examines how Americans have conceptualized progress over decades. Unlike Disney’s optimistic portrayal, however, Chappel interrogates the gap between the promised future and our lived reality, particularly in how we care for our aging population – a demographic conspicuously absent from Disney’s vision of perpetual youth and boundless opportunity (even though, interestingly, the “aged” are present in each scene of the Carousel of Progress).

Beginning with the 1935 passage of the Social Security Act, Americans were sold on the idea of old age: what it was, and what is was for. The core idea was simple. Older people, while distinct in capacities and purposes from younger ones, had a meaningful place in the world. They ought to be valued and respected, and they deserved security and dignity even if they were no longer participating in the waged labor force. Older people, in short, belonged on the Carousel.

James Chappel, Golden Years

The Narrative of Progress

The attraction’s core theme is “progress,” a concept deeply ingrained in American culture. Each scene depicts a more technologically advanced era, highlighting the conveniences and comforts that new inventions bring. This unwavering focus on forward momentum reflects a societal tendency to equate “good living” with constant advancement.

In the context of aging, this can translate to a cultural pressure to remain “productive” and “modern,” often leading to the marginalization of those who cannot keep pace with rapid technological change.

The Shifting Landscape of “Modern Life”

The Carousel of Progress illustrates how the definition of “modern life” has drastically shifted over time. What was considered cutting-edge in the early 20th century is now quaint and nostalgic.

Similarly, societal perceptions of aging have evolved. Older generations have witnessed profound transformations in technology, social norms, and lifestyles. This creates a generational divide, where the experiences and perspectives of older adults may be perceived as “outdated.”

Nostalgia and the Idealized Past

The attraction evokes a sense of nostalgia, romanticizing the past while simultaneously celebrating the future. This nostalgic element can be seen as a reflection of how society often views aging, with a tendency to idealize youth and earlier life stages.

This can also create a difficult situation, where older people are seen as living in the past, and not properly living in the present.

Technological Integration and Isolation

While showing the benefits of technology, it can be argued that it also shows how technology can isolate people. Modern scenes show people more and more focused on individual devices.

This can be a big problem for the elderly, where technology can be a barrier, and also where the use of technology can cause social isolation.

In essence, the Carousel of Progress, with its optimistic portrayal of technological advancement, mirrors the complex and often contradictory attitudes towards aging in American society. It highlights the tension between celebrating progress and grappling with the challenges of a rapidly changing world. By examining this beloved attraction through the lens of social commentary, the hope is to gain a deeper understanding of how cultural narratives shape our perceptions of aging.

On farms and in factories, Americans once had little choice but to work until death. As the nation prospered, a new idea was born: the right to a dignified and secure old age. That project has benefited millions, but it remains incomplete – and today it’s under siege. 

In Golden Years, historian James Chappel shows how old age first emerged as a distinct stage of life and how it evolved over the last century, shaped by politicians’ choices, activists’ demands, medical advancements, and cultural models from utopian novels to The Golden Girls. Only after World War II did government subsidies and employer pensions allow people to retire en masse. Just one generation later, this model crumbled. Older people streamed back into the workforce, and free-market policymakers pushed the burdens of aging back onto older Americans and their families. We now confront an old age mired in contradictions: ever longer lifespans and spiraling health-care costs, 401(k)s and economic precarity, unprecedented opportunity and often disastrous instability.   

As the population of older Americans grows, Golden Years urges us to look to the past to better understand old age today—and how it could be better tomorrow.

Golden Years is a fascinating account of the history of old age in modern America, showing how we created unprecedented security for some and painful uncertainty for others.

Golden Years: How Americans Invented and Reinvented Old Age by James Chappel offers a comprehensive examination of the evolving perceptions and policies surrounding aging in the United States. Chappel, a historian at Duke University, delves into the socio-political, economic, and cultural factors that have shaped the experience of old age over the past century.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, many Americans worked until they were physically unable, with little to no financial support in their later years. The introduction of the Social Security Act in 1935 marked a pivotal shift, providing a safety net that acknowledged the right to a secure and dignified retirement. However, Chappel points out that these benefits were initially designed for a specific demographic: middle-class, married, white couples. Notably, agricultural and domestic workers, many of whom were African American, were excluded from these early provisions.

The mid-20th century saw the rise of the term “senior citizens,” reflecting a societal shift towards viewing older adults as active and engaged members of the community. This era witnessed the expansion of programs like Medicare and Medicaid, further solidifying support for the elderly. Cultural representations, such as the 1985 television show “The Golden Girls,” mirrored and influenced these changing attitudes by portraying older women leading vibrant, independent lives.

However, Chappel highlights that the landscape of aging underwent significant changes towards the end of the 20th century. The shift towards privatization, exemplified by the introduction of IRAs and 401(k) plans, placed more responsibility on individuals to secure their own retirement. This move, coupled with rising healthcare costs and longer life expectancies, has led to increased financial insecurity among older adults. 

Chappel also addresses the disparities that persist within the aging population. For instance, older Black Americans have often faced discriminatory practices in nursing homes and have been disproportionately affected by policies that did not account for their unique challenges. Activists like sociologist Jacquelyne Jackson have worked to bring these issues to light, advocating for policies that recognize and address the specific realities confronting older Black individuals. 

In the contemporary context, Chappel observes a dilution of collective advocacy for older adults. Organizations such as AARP have shifted focus towards commercial ventures, potentially at the expense of robust policy advocacy. This evolution raises concerns about the future of Social Security and the adequacy of support systems for an aging population.

Golden Years is not only a captivating historical account but also a call to action. Chappel urges policymakers and society at large to reconsider how aging is approached, emphasizing the need for inclusive and sustainable models that ensure dignity and security for all older adults, regardless of race or socioeconomic status.

As individuals, and as a nation, we are all getting older. We will be making decisions together about how to shape the gray future. And in doing so, it might help to understand a good deal more about the gray past.

Chappel’s work offers a nuanced exploration of the transformation of old age in America. By weaving together historical analysis with cultural insights, Golden Years provides readers with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with an aging society. It serves as a timely reminder of the importance of equitable policies and the collective responsibility to support individuals as they age.

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.

Celebrating National Library Week: Where Stories Come Alive

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National Library Week is more than just a calendar event—it’s a vibrant celebration of knowledge, community, and the transformative power of reading. Each year, this special week reminds us of the vital role libraries play in our lives, offering far more than just rows of books on shelves. They are sanctuaries of discovery, learning, and connection that continue to evolve in our digital age.

That’s the North County Regional branch of the Charlotte Mecklenburg library.

It’s also my weekly destination for dropping off and picking up books I’ve placed on hold throughout the week.

Visiting the local library is a long-standing tradition with me. As a small boy, I remember with fondness the bi-monthly visits to the branch library in the next county. We were limited to checking out 20 books at a time, and it was a rare visit when I didn’t meet that quota.

As soon as the car pulled in the driveway, I would race into our house and begin reading through my treasure trove of books.

In my early years, I would often have them all read in a matter of days. As I got older and the books got longer, it might take the whole two-week period to read them.

Then there’s school libraries, from middle school to high school to college to graduate school. More treasures of a deeper and longer-lasting sort.

When our children came along, I introduced them to the joy of reading and the local library. In each city we’ve lived in, one of the very first visits we made after moving was to stop by the library and pick up a library card. Since our four children were born four years apart, that’s a long time of library visits!

I’m proud to say that as they have grown up, and with children of their own, reading and visiting the library is still important in their lives. And of course, any grandchild visiting Nina and GrandBob is going to have a selection of the latest age-appropriate books from our library waiting!

The Heart of Our Communities

Libraries are perhaps the most democratic institutions we have. They welcome everyone, regardless of age, background, or economic status. From a child discovering their first picture book to a student researching a complex topic, from a job seeker using free computer resources to a retiree attending a community workshop, libraries serve as inclusive spaces that bridge gaps and open doors to opportunity.

In an era of increasing digital isolation, libraries stand as physical spaces that bring people together. They are community centers where knowledge is shared, ideas are exchanged, and connections are made. Free classes, reading groups, cultural events, and workshops transform libraries from quiet repositories of books into dynamic, interactive spaces of learning and engagement.

A World of Endless Exploration

Imagine walking into a library and being surrounded by millions of stories waiting to be discovered. Each book is a portal to another world, another perspective, another life experience. Whether you’re interested in traversing distant galaxies through science fiction, understanding historical events through meticulously researched non-fiction, or exploring the depths of human emotion through poetry, libraries offer an infinite landscape of exploration.

Modern libraries have expanded far beyond traditional book lending. Many now offer:

  • Digital resources and e-book collections
  • Free Wi-Fi and computer access
  • Language learning programs
  • Technology workshops
  • Children’s storytelling sessions
  • Local history archives
  • Career development resources

How to Celebrate National Library Week

Celebrating National Library Week doesn’t require grand gestures – just curiosity and an open mind. Here are some wonderful ways to participate:

  • Get a Library Card: If you don’t already have one, visit your local library and sign up. It’s typically free and opens up a world of resources. Many libraries now offer digital cards that provide instant access to online materials.
  • Attend a Library Event: Check your local library’s calendar. Most libraries host special events during National Library Week, such as author talks, book clubs, writing workshops, or family-friendly activities.
  • Explore a New Genre: Challenge yourself to read something completely different from your usual preferences. Ask a librarian for recommendations – they’re experts at matching readers with perfect books.
  • Support Your Library: Consider donating books, volunteering, or making a financial contribution. Libraries often rely on community support to maintain and expand their services.

A Personal Invitation

This National Library Week, I invite you to rediscover the magic of your local library. Take a moment to step inside, breathe in the quiet atmosphere of possibility, and remember that within these walls, every book is a journey waiting to begin, every shelf a landscape of potential waiting to be explored.

My visits to my local library – from 60 years ago as a young reader to this week’s latest explorations – continue to impact my life every day.

Libraries are more than buildings – they are guardians of human knowledge, dreamers of collective imagination, and bridges to understanding. They remind us that in a world of constant change, the love of learning and the power of stories remain timeless.

Make time this week to “check out” your local library!

Breaking Busyness: A Guide to Intentional Habits for a Distracted World

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Habits form us more than we form them.

The modern world is a machine of a thousand invisible habits, forming us into anxious, busy, and depressed people. We yearn for the freedom and peace of the gospel, but remain addicted to our technology, shackled by our screens, and exhausted by our routines. But because our habits are the water we swim in, they are almost invisible to us. What can we do about it?

The answer to our contemporary chaos is to practice a rule of life that aligns our habits to our beliefs. The Common Rule offers four daily and four weekly habits, designed to help us create new routines and transform frazzled days into lives of love for God and neighbor. Justin Earley provides concrete, doable practices, such as a daily hour of phone-less presence or a weekly conversation with a friend.

These habits are “common” not only because they are ordinary, but also because they can be practiced in community. They have been lived out by people across all walks of life – businesspeople, professionals, parents, students, retirees – who have discovered new hope and purpose. As you embark on these life-giving practices, you will find the freedom and rest for your soul that comes from aligning belief in Jesus with the practices of Jesus.

The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction by Justin Whitmel Earley is a compelling exploration of how intentional, life-giving habits can counteract the chaos and distraction of modern life. Earley, a lawyer and former missionary, shares his personal journey of achieving career success while experiencing profound personal collapse. His anxiety attacks and insomnia led him to recognize that despite his intentions to live a meaningful life, his actual habits were creating the opposite result. This crisis prompted him to study monastic traditions and develop his own “common rule” of practices to realign his daily life with his deeper values.

Overview

The book is built around the idea that habits shape our loves, and our loves shape our lives. Modern technology and culture have created default habits that pull us toward distraction, isolation, and shallow engagement with the world. The book proposes that by adopting intentional “common rules” of daily living, we can reshape our lives toward purpose, community, and spiritual depth.

In an era where distraction, busyness, and digital overwhelm dominate, Earley argues that forming intentional habits or “common rules” can reorient our focus toward God, community, and holistic well-being. In The Common Rule, he introduces a set of four daily and four weekly habits designed to create a framework for a more meaningful, God-centered life.

The Need for a Rule of Life

Drawing inspiration from monastic traditions, particularly St. Benedict’s Rule, Earley contends that modern people need their own structured rule of life – not to burden themselves but to provide a path toward freedom. Without deliberate habits, he argues, people unintentionally fall into harmful routines dictated by technology, consumerism, and workaholism.

The Four Daily Habits

Kneeling Prayer (Three Times a Day) – This practice anchors the day in prayer, helping individuals start, pause, and end their day with God. It reorients priorities and builds reliance on divine wisdom rather than self-sufficiency.

One Meal with Others – In a culture that values productivity over relationships, sharing a meal fosters community and meaningful conversation, reminding individuals that they are not meant to live in isolation.

One Hour with Phone Off – Constant connectivity breeds anxiety and distraction. By intentionally turning off devices for at least one hour a day, people reclaim their attention and presence for God, loved ones, and personal reflection.

Scripture Before Phone – Instead of starting the day with emails, news, or social media, prioritizing Scripture ensures that the first words absorbed each day come from God, shaping one’s heart and mind.

The Four Weekly Habits

One Hour of Conversation with a Friend – Deep friendships require time and intentionality. Prioritizing a dedicated hour for conversation fosters relationships that provide encouragement and accountability.

Curate Media to Four Hours – Media consumption, if unchecked, can shape desires in unhealthy ways. Limiting intake to four hours per week encourages mindful engagement rather than passive consumption.

Fast from Something for Twenty-Four Hours – Whether fasting from food, social media, or entertainment, this practice cultivates discipline and reminds individuals of their dependence on God rather than worldly comforts.

Sabbath Rest – Setting aside one day for true rest, worship, and delight counteracts the relentless demands of productivity culture and restores a sense of peace and trust in God’s provision.

Impacts and Takeaways

Earley weaves biblical wisdom and practical application throughout the book, illustrating how habits serve as a form of spiritual formation. He emphasizes that these disciplines are not about legalism but about cultivating a life ordered around love for God and others. He also acknowledges the challenges of habit formation and encourages grace and flexibility in the journey.

The Common Rule has resonated with readers seeking practical ways to live more intentionally in a distracted age. The book is a timely guide for those feeling overwhelmed by the pace of modern life. By establishing small but intentional habits, individuals can cultivate a more grounded, relational, and spiritually rich existence. Earley’s personal testimony of transformation underscores the book’s core message: meaningful change is possible when we surrender our routines to God’s greater purpose.

Earley’s book is a practical and deeply encouraging resource for anyone seeking to live with greater intention and purpose. The Common Rule offers a tangible way to resist the drift of busyness and distraction, instead building a life of love, presence, and faithfulness. For those longing to reclaim their time, attention, and relationships, these habits provide a simple yet profound roadmap to a flourishing life.

Part of a regular series on 27gen, entitled Wednesday Weekly Reader.

During my elementary school years one of the things I looked forward to the most was the delivery of “My Weekly Reader,” a weekly educational magazine designed for children and containing news-based current events.

It became a regular part of my love for reading, and helped develop my curiosity about the world around us.

Day One: Cultivating a Meaningful Rule of Life

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As I began my job transition several months ago, and as it continues today, I am guided by a Transition Tool Kit. Consisting of 7 “tools” that were developed from the work of Bruce Feiler’s Life is in the Transitions and other noted transition guides, the Tool Kit contains concepts and action plans that I have been working through.

Here are first three:

  • Acknowledge: Identify Your Emotions
  • Seek: Pursue Wisdom from Others
  • Celebrate: Ritualize the Change

While the tools are not designed to be linear and can be picked up at any time, I’ve been comfortable with moving through the sequence of the three above to this date.

Now, it’s on to Liberate: Give Up Old Mindsets.

The mindsets that served me in my previous stage may no longer be useful – or even hinder me – in this next phase. Shedding outdated beliefs and self-limiting narratives requires courage, but it opens doors to growth. 

What assumptions am I carrying that no longer align with who I are or who I want to become? Moving through transition often means letting go of familiar but outdated notions of success, identity, or purpose.

The deleting of my work calendar and schedules was the first part of using this tool. But having a blank calendar is not a plan for transition – it will only lead to listless drifting. Along with this tool, it’s also time to pick up another one – Create: Experiment with New Ideas.

With old mindsets cleared, I’m giving myself permission to explore new ways of thinking and doing. I’m going to try activities, roles, or ideas that resonate with where I’m headed. This stage is about experimenting without the fear of failure. As I explore, I will stay open to discovering passions, skills, or career paths that I may not have previously considered.

And that brings me to a mindset that’s been dropping into my life in increasing measures over the last few months. It began with reading and study I had been doing related to following Jesus. It continued with the passages of Matthew we are studying in our church’s current sermon series and community group that deal with rest and the Sabbath.

So picture this: on the one hand, I’m at Day One of a new chapter in my life – one with a literal blank calendar. On the other hand, I’ve got the tools of Liberate and Create ready to use.

What’s next?

Finding Purpose Through Pattern: The Modern Rule of Life

In our fast-paced world of constant activity, many people are rediscovering an ancient wisdom practice: the rule of life. This concept, far from being a rigid set of regulations, offers a framework for intentional living that modern seekers find increasingly relevant.

Origins in Spiritual Tradition

The “rule of life” traces its origins to early spiritual leaders like St. Augustine and St. Benedict. These church fathers developed communal patterns that spiritual communities have utilized for thousands of years as formation tools. Despite the constraining connotations of the word “rule,” these frameworks were never about blind obedience but rather about establishing communal purpose.

Both Augustine and Benedict shared a singular focus: love. They meticulously designed daily patterns with the explicit goal of orienting life toward loving God and neighbor. Augustine began his rule declaring, “Before all things, most dear brothers, we must love God and after Him our neighbor; for these are the principal commands which have been given to us.” Similarly, Benedict aimed to create nothing “harsh” or “burdensome,” but instead sought to guide followers toward the “ineffable sweetness of love.”

The Latin root of “rule” – regula – reveals its true intent. Rather than restriction, it refers to a trellis or supporting structure that guides growth. Like plants that thrive with proper support, human growth benefits from thoughtful direction to prevent twisted, chaotic development.

The Scaffolding of Our Days

Our lives take shape through the cumulative effect of small, repeated actions. As Annie Dillard insightfully noted, “How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives.” Our schedules serve as “scaffolding” that allow us to intentionally engage with time itself.

This scaffolding concept perfectly illustrates the rule of life’s purpose. Habits are how we interact with time, and since time is the currency of purpose, habits become the means through which we access and fulfill our deeper callings. If knowledge requires the right words, character formation requires the right habits. The rule of life provides the framework for cultivating these transformative patterns.

For centuries, monastic communities have understood this profound connection between daily practice and spiritual development. Their insight reveals that meaningful formation begins with a framework of habits – a truth that deserves wider recognition in our contemporary context.

Integrating Belief and Practice

While understanding theological truths about God and neighbor is essential, equally important is putting those truths into practice through a deliberate rule of life. Belief without practice remains incomplete, just as education without formation falls short. Knowing Jesus without following Jesus creates a dissonance that diminishes our humanity.

Only when our habits align with our worldview do we become people who truly love rather than merely understand concepts of love. This integration transforms abstract knowledge into embodied wisdom.

The Challenge of Default Formation

Many of us have unknowingly adopted what might be called “the American rule of life” – an unconscious program of habits that shapes us toward anxiety, depression, consumerism, and self-absorption. These default patterns form us in ways contrary to our stated values.

The urgency of developing an intentional, gospel-based rule of life becomes clear when we recognize how powerfully these cultural currents influence us. We need counter-formative practices to become the loving people we aspire to be.

This issue extends beyond personal well-being to our public witness. American Christianity often emphasizes the message of Jesus while neglecting his practices, creating a troubling disconnect between proclaimed faith and lived reality. How else can we explain professed followers of a radical gospel who conform so seamlessly to prevailing cultural norms?

Embracing the Trellis

The path forward requires acknowledging how habits shape the heart. Rather than viewing limitations as threats to freedom, we must recognize that thoughtful boundaries create space for meaningful growth. The trellis doesn’t restrict the vine – it enables it to flourish in its intended direction.

By crafting a common rule of life suited to our time, we can unite our intellectual understanding with our daily practices. This integration allows us to grow into the lovers of God and neighbor we were created to be, following not just the teachings but the way of Jesus.

In rediscovering this ancient wisdom, we find a surprisingly relevant answer to modern challenges – not through more information or stronger willpower, but through the patient cultivation of life-giving habits that transform us from the inside out.

Up Next: Exploring The Common Rule

Growing Whole, Not Old: Moving from Traditional Retirement to Maximum Influence

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I have had a job – received payment in exchange for labor – in some capacity since age 6, beginning in 1964. 

My formative years were spent in my father’s gas station – beginning with keeping the coal stove burning with coal brought in from the pile out back of the station and other small tasks. A wide range of responsibilities dealing with every part of a gas station followed over the next twelve years, ending in my senior year of high school as “Assistant Manager” (more of an honorarium than actual title, but what 18-year old wouldn’t like that?). Upon graduation from high school, my father fired me – just as he had every other “boy” who worked for him during their high school years since 1949 – and told me to find a “real” job for the summer before I entered college in the fall.

That summer I worked the third shift at the Aladdin factory, making thermos bottles – the old fashioned, vacuum-glass ones. Not-so-affectionately called “the Glass House,” the temperatures hovered around 120° if you moved outside of the 18” column of cool air blowing down on your work area. While I appreciated that kind of work, it wasn’t for me – which is exactly what my dad wanted me to learn.

In college I worked part-time in the office of the Economics Department for four years. During my senior year, and after graduation, I worked part-time as an accountant for a food processing plant.

I have had a job in a full-time capacity (hours) since age 23, starting in 1981. Upon beginning my seminary studies, I worked part-time as an audiovisual technician for the seminary and as a part-time staff member for a church, while carrying a full academic load.

Upon graduation, I officially began a full-time job for the same church, then serving two additional churches over the next 23 years. In 2004 I began working as a consultant to the church, in two different companies, for the next 21 years.

Friday, February 28, 2025 was my final day “on the job” – 61 years, or 44 years, depending on how you measure it, of having a job.

I had not anticipated my position being eliminated, but I fully accept this time in my life, and acknowledge with gratefulness God’s sovereignty and direction in and for my life.

I’m not finished having a job, but I understand that how “work” is defined is changing for me.

As of right now, I plan to retire sometime in 2025. “Retirement” in this sense means I will acknowledge and accept the formal status determined by laws and the government.

It does not mean I will stop working.

Many leaders view retirement – whether a few months, years, or decades away – as a finish line.

But increasingly these leaders, especially for those who are closer to retirement, are finding that being too young to retire but too old to find a job has become a critical issue.

Many of us feel like we’re growing whole rather than growing old. What if there was a new, modern archetype of elderhood, one that was worn as a badge of honor, not cloaked in shame?

Chip Conley

Enter the concept of a Modern Elder.

“3D vision” refers to the effect of our brains merging the two dimensional images from both our eyes to interpret depth, thus “seeing” in 3 dimensions: length, width, and depth. 

I’d like to borrow that definition and create a new metaphor: A vision of a Modern Elder that utilizes 3 representations of time: past, present, and future.

  • Past is history
  • Present is reality
  • Future is opportunity

History – Every past success and failure in your life can be a source of information and wisdom – if you allow it to be. The wise Modern Elder has learned both from success and failure, and realizes there will be more of both. Don’t be satisfied with your successes, and don’t be dismayed by your failures. History is important: it is not a rock to weigh you down, but a bridge to build the future.

Reality – No matter what we learn from the past, it will never tell you all you need to know for the present. The wise Modern Elder is constantly gathering information from many sources about what’s going on in the here and now – because that’s where we are at. They ask others on their team, they talk with their family and friends; they look to other wise people of all ages for insight. Though formal schooling may be long in the past, it’s always important to continually be students of the people surrounding you.

Opportunity – Wise Modern Elders should strive to see tomorrow before it arrives. They have a vision for a preferable future, they understand what it will take to get there, they know who they will need to become in order to be successful, and they recognize obstacles long before they become apparent to others.

Wise Modern Elders will understand the three dimensions of past, present, and future, and realize they are not an illusion, but a powerful force that will help them reach their real depth and dimension, and in doing so, help others do the same.

My journey to becoming a Modern Elder is all about reciprocity. 

Giving and receiving. Teaching and learning. Speaking and listening. 

Everyone gets older, but not everyone gets elder.

The first just happens (if you’re lucky and healthy). The other you have to earn.

The traditional view of elders as repositories of wisdom, passing down knowledge to younger generations, has been upended by the breakneck pace of technological change. Yet, the need for wisdom, context, and perspective has never been greater. Modern Elders bridge this gap, combining years of experience with a willingness to learn, adapt, and engage with new ideas and technologies.

Our world is awash in knowledge, but often wanting in wisdom. To stay relevant, it’s not just about learning something new, it’s also about learning new ways to access the information at our fingertips.

Chip Conley

Retirement doesn’t have to be the last great thing a leader does. It can be the gateway to a leader’s greatest season of influence.

Final Approach: Reframing Life’s Unexpected Transitions

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In late October 2024, as dawn broke through dark skies on my daily morning walk, I listened to the night sounds turning into day. I was walking the familiar path with a mixture of nostalgia, fear, and anticipation. 

For over 44 years, I had served in a variety of roles with a common focus: the church, the body of Christ. As a staff member or a strategic outsider, my goal had always been as a guiding light for the organization. Independent, logical, and determined, I am known for my relentless pursuit of learning through exploration, researching, and by asking searching questions.  Outwardly quiet, reserved, and detached, inwardly I am constantly absorbed in analyzing problems or situations. Work, for me, is the process of striving towards something that matters deeply to me and is consistent with my values. It was more than just a job.

Yet here I was on the morning after the fateful call in which I had been informed that my job was being eliminated in four months’ time, at the end of February. 

On that morning, the walk was more habit than conscious decision, but not for long.

As I walked with the shock still fresh, my mind turned to the skies at the sound of a plane overhead. With the wind blowing in my face, airplanes approaching Charlotte Douglas airport were landing from the north. That meant flight after flight was lining up like a set of twinkling cafe lights from the south, flying directly overhead, and then turning to the west before one more turn to make their final approach.

In a flash, I knew that the term final approach was a perfect metaphor for what I was facing. Long enamored of airplanes and flight, and with a father who served in WWII in the Army Air Corps and a son currently a captain in the Air Force, the phrase was perfect for the situation I was facing.

The news of my job elimination had come like turbulence on a clear day, unexpected yet undeniable. While my colleagues and friends may have thought “retirement,” I felt  down to my core that I hadn’t yet reached my “final destination” (to use another flight metaphor). There was still a journey ahead – uncharted skies and yet-to-be-discovered places. And I intended to approach this moment as I had every challenge in my career: with conviction, gratitude, and the desire to finish well.

During the four months left, I set out to use each day purposefully. Reframing this period, I chose to see this as a final approach of my current job before moving into new territory with another destination in the future, rather than an ending. 

As I spent my days on the various parts of my job at hand, each task took on a new meaning as I did my daily tasks but also prepared to share not only insights about the technical aspects but also wisdom gleaned from my years in the role. Each call, every report or spreadsheet prepared, and even casual conversations in digital spaces became opportunities to create the equivalent of a pilot’s “flight bag” – aeronautical and navigation charts, route manuals, and flight checklists. Necessary for ongoing “flights,” my intention was that all the activity over the next four months would provide direction and guidance for the team, allowing them to flourish after I was gone.

My evenings and weekends became devoted to planning the next part of my adventure. I am charting out ideas that have simmered in the back of my mind for years: more writing, maybe, or mentoring/coaching opportunities where I could invest in people beyond my field. I’m even envisioning a “modern elder” initiative – a place where seasoned professionals can support rising generations, sharing both practical skills and timeless principles. 

To me, this isn’t about staying relevant or proving something; it was about answering a call I have long felt deep within, one that echoed louder than any retirement clock ticking in my ear.

Anita, always my closest source of inspiration and encouragement, has stepped up big time. Her own personal journey and recent medical battles over the past three years have provided immense support and a calm sense of peace in stormy weather.

Many more conversations followed, and continue, with my children, friends, and other individuals being sought out to provide a sound word of counsel.

After two months of the above, some unforeseen medical issues brought unexpected “interruptions” into my plans. With just enough energy to fulfill my daily role, I set aside looking to the future for a time.

As I closed out each night, I felt a growing sense of peace. I embraced this final approach with the steady focus of a seasoned pilot bringing in a plane through the night – aware of the passengers and cargo, mindful of all the external factors affecting the final approach, but confident in the landing and the subsequent journey ahead. 

My final destination? This period isn’t an exit but an opening, a new horizon where my years of experience have become a compass guiding me toward purpose and fulfillment beyond what I could have dreamed about before.

When the time comes to step away and power down my laptop for the final time in a few hours, I won’t look back with regret. Instead, I am moving toward the future with a smile, heart full of hope for the landing yet to come. 

My journey is far from over; in fact, it has just begun.

The Last Click: Erasing Calendar Blocks, Embracing Possibilities

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For the last two decades, my workdays have been shaped by the rhythm of my calendar.

A carefully structured flow of time blocks dictated my tasks, my focus, and, in some ways, my identity. There were the predictable, repeating tasks that formed the backbone of my week – daily social media creation and posting, back-end administrative tasks, and engagement actions. As a part of a virtual team since 2012, there were also corporate huddles, team strategic planning sessions, client planning and deliverables, and the one-on-ones where relationships were nurtured and ideas refined. Then there were the scheduled but fluid blocks, the ones set aside for ideation, creativity, and the deep work that fueled progress. Each of these moments played a role in shaping not only my professional life but the legacy I leave behind.

Now, in my final week on the job, I find myself doing something that once would have felt unthinkable: deleting those time blocks. It is a necessary part of the transition out of my job, but also an unexpectedly emotional one. Each click of the delete button erases a piece of the framework that has defined my work for years. With every disappearing time block, I am reminded that this chapter is closing.

At first, it feels like a simple act of housekeeping – removing obligations that no longer apply. But as I scroll through my calendar, the memories attached to those meetings rise to the surface. The weekly project update on Fridays at 10 AM? That was where our team navigated challenges together, brainstorming solutions and celebrating wins. The recurring morning creative sessions for social media? That was time to connect our monthly themes to engaging images and words. Even the Monday morning planning block – once a dreaded necessity – now feels like a familiar companion, a ritual that grounded my week. The “planned spontaneity” of daily creative time? That was my sacred space to step away from the daily grind and dream about the future.

Deleting these blocks is more than clearing space on a calendar; it is acknowledging that the routines that once shaped my days will soon belong to someone else – or to no one at all. The thought is both liberating and melancholic. On one hand, there is an undeniable sense of relief. The deadlines, the obligations, the demands that once felt so urgent are dissolving. The weight of responsibility is lifting. But on the other hand, there is an ache that comes with letting go of something that has been so deeply ingrained in my life.

As the calendar empties, I recognize that I am also making space for something new. While I don’t yet know exactly what the next chapter holds, I do know that the structure I once relied on will soon be replaced by a different rhythm. And maybe that’s the beauty of it – this transition is not just about endings, but about the beginnings waiting just beyond the horizon.

So I take a deep breath, and with one final click, I delete the last remaining hold on my schedule. The time block vanishes, leaving behind an open space. A blank slate.

And in that emptiness, I choose to see possibility.

Closing the Circle: A Grateful Goodbye and a New Beginning

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We live in a world defined by exits. Visual reminders of departure surround us daily, guiding our movements, anticipating our turns, and flashing directions.

From following exit arrows in parking garages to noting emergency exits in darkened theaters, from flight attendants’ safety briefings to kindergartners learning their first important words – “exits” represent efficiency, safety, order, and protection. They structure our physical environment and shape our daily routines, whether we’re navigating unfamiliar highways or traveling well-worn paths in our communities with barely a conscious thought.

The language and metaphors of exit permeate our lives as well. We apply for exit visas before international travel, directors choreograph theatrical exits, poker players “fold” to exit a game on their own terms, and even our news media and crime shows are saturated with references to “exit wounds.” These departures are woven into the fabric of our existence – marking our physical landscapes, embedding our language, shaping our national narratives, and influencing our personal development. Yet despite their ubiquity, exits often remain invisible, overshadowed by our cultural fascination with beginnings, launches, and entries.

Perhaps in our celebration of new starts, we’ve rendered the equally important act of leaving somehow less noble by comparison.

Today, I am invoking a deeply personal ritual of goodbye to my job with the Auxano team.

Saying goodbye is never easy, especially after spending over 12 years as part of the incredible Auxano team. But as I consider a new chapter, I want to take a moment to reflect, appreciate, and look ahead with optimism.

For me, this isn’t just an exit – it’s the closing of a circle, a completion of a season filled with dedication, growth, and countless meaningful experiences. The phrase “closing the circle” often symbolizes bringing something to completion, ensuring that what was started is finished well. That’s exactly how I feel about my time on the Auxano team.

My Journey with Books and Auxano

My Auxano journey began in 2008 with books – specifically, one book and a custom bookcase holding 40 or so leadership books, designed to fit in the back of a Jeep Liberty. That initial encounter led to joining the team full-time in 2012.

My Auxano journey is ending with books – specifically, a book curated by me for each member of the current Auxano team – from my Disney library.

Books have always been a part of my life, going all the way back to my childhood. To a lesser extent, Disney has been ever-present as well. It seemed only natural to put those two together a long time ago, and I haven’t stopped yet!

As I wrapped up my time with the Auxano team earlier this week at our annual Resync, I wanted to celebrate each team member in a special way: From my 500+ book Disney library, I chose a specific book for each member of the team that conveyed a message of how their gifts and encouragement have been demonstrated to me. It is my hope they enjoy reading through the book, and as they do, they will know that I remember our times together on the team with much fondness and appreciation for their friendship.

A Legacy of Dedication

Over the past 12+years, I have had the privilege of working alongside some of the most talented, knowledgeable, and compassionate people I’ve ever met. Whether it was managing key projects, brainstorming fresh ideas, or simply being a reliable presence, I have truly cherished the opportunity to contribute and grow alongside this team.

From my early days navigating the new challenges of an almost-vertical learning curve to the most recent initiatives that pushed us forward, I have learned so much. The resilience, creativity, and shared commitment to our mission have made this journey incredibly rewarding. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I know that the impact of our work will continue long after I’ve moved on.

Not an Ending, But a New Beginning

While my job may be coming to an end, the relationships, lessons, and experiences of the Auxano team will stay with me forever. This job has never just been about tasks and deliverables – it has been about the people who make it all happen, and the clients we served.

Now, I am looking ahead to a new season, one filled with possibilities. Whether it’s exploring new career opportunities, diving into passion projects, or simply taking a break, I carry with me the confidence that the same qualities that served me well at Auxano and previous jobs will continue to guide me forward. Change can be daunting, but it is also exhilarating – an open door to new adventures and unforeseen opportunities.

A Heartfelt Thank You

As I close this circle with my Auxano brothers and sisters, I do so with immense gratitude. Thank you to each and every one on the Auxano team for your support, encouragement, and friendship. You have shaped my journey in ways that I will never forget. My work here has mattered, but more importantly, you have mattered to me.

While I will not be logging on to the virtual office space that Auxano thrives in every day, know that I will always carry the memories and lessons from this team with me. I celebrate all that we have accomplished together, and I look forward with excitement to what’s ahead for the team.

So here’s to closing the circle – not as a farewell, but as the completion of a journey well traveled and the beginning of a future full of promise. I can’t wait to see what’s next!

May God continue to richly bless each of you in the days ahead!