How to not get lost: 101

Walt Disney World

Magic Kingdom

Main Street, USA

Shortly after moving to Florida in 1982, my dad took us to Magic Kingdom at Disney World. When I say us, I mean the five youngest kids that still lived at home: Joe, Sylvia, Booner, Sand-e and me.

I was the smallest at barely eight-years-old and walking down Main Street USA was a bit overwhelming. If you have never been there, you should know that the walkways can get extremely crowded.

Our family snaked its way throughout the park going from one ride to another. We were not accustomed to the heat and humidity of the south. By the end of the afternoon, we were growing weary.

Somewhere in a box, I have a picture of us standing in front of Cinderella's Castle. In all honesty, I don't remember having the picture taken. I don't even remember the rides at all, even though I know we fit in quite a few.

This is what I remember from that day.

We were snaking down the street and I was following my brother, Booner. I focused my eyes on his back and followed him closely so I wouldn't get lost in the crowd. After a few moments, Booner turned around and asked, "Have you seen Sylvia?"

"What? Have I seen Sylvia? No. I'm following you. You were supposed to be following Sylvia." And of course, I started to cry.

Because we were lost.

Separated from my dad.

In Disney World.

Living in Colorado and having been fishing in the mountains, we both knew exactly what to do when you get lost.

Stay put.

We sat on the edge of the sidewalk and waited. I continued to cry. (That part is optional.)

Though it felt like forever to me, in a few minutes, I saw my dad come barreling through the crowds with the rest of my siblings on his heels. His arms were opened wide and he pulled us into his embrace. We were found.

Our family spent a couple more hours at Disney World that day. Instead of moving through the crowds like a long snake, we looked more like an amoeba.

We learned a valuable lesson. This lesson is still true today.

If you don't want to get lost, keep your eyes on the Father.

Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me. John 12:26

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Hebrews 12:1-3

Just so you know . . .
Booner's real name is Daniel. We used to call him Daniel Boone and somehow it ended up Booner.