(Posted on the WDWMagic Imagineering Forum)
It is easy to see that Imagineering, like other arts, generates a lot of creativity. But Imagineering can also help them to grow in virtues. As outlined by the Greek philosopher Aristotle, a virtuous person is one who has ideal character traits. As with any hobby, there are many virtues that Imagineers (either professional or amateur) can grow in through their work. Although Imagineering is not a sport (one does not engage in physical exercise by doing it), the virtues that one can grow in our similar to that of a sport. This is especially the case in Imagineering competitions where individuals often work in teams against other teams. As with any competition, the goal is to win. Players agree to rules so that the play is fair. First and foremost, Imagineering competitions require sacrifice (just like sports). A person can maybe procrastinate on some tasks and shortcut others, but there’s a minimum amount of time and effort needed to put forward a good project. An Imagineer at times may need to delay or forego things like sleep, food, or TV shows they want to see so that their portion of the project gets completed in time. One of the greatest motivators in an Imagineering competition is a task that a person is passionate for. Passion can be a bigger factor in a win than things like realism, presentation style, or even teamwork. Outside of Imagineering, it’s a good reminder that the ways we spend our time should be something we are passionate about. Most people are passionate about family and friends, although some people could probably use reminders from time to time to prioritize those relationships. Imagineering also can help one to foster obedience. Most team projects involve a Team Leader. Somebody could have the best idea ever but if the Team Leader chooses something else, it’s time to shift focus to what has been chosen. Imagineers also have to listen well to their teammates, to take their suggestions to heart and incorporate them into the design. Another fruit of Imagineering is discipline. Anybody can be focused on a project for a day but to stay focused for a week requires discipline. Humility is also a virtue that Imagineers grow in. When their ideas are rejected, it’s difficult to not take it personally. When the team loses, it’s hard to not feel deflated. And when an individual is eliminated from a competition, it is easy to become sad. But all of those disappointments can be used for good. And every Imagineer (unless you’re a perfect player like @Outbound…just kidding!) is going to have occasions to grow in humility. The ideas for many of these virtues comes from the late Pope John Paul the Second (1920-2005, Pope from 1978-2005). He believed that the attributes required (through growth in virtue) to become a champion in a sport were similar (in many respects) to those required to become a saint. Through the various ups and downs of the Imagineering competitions, may we all aim for growing in virtue as well as supporting each other along the way!
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