The Beaglesword this week was “story.”
Next week's word is “pattern.”

Pretty deep rabbit hole,
wouldn't you say?

– Roy H. Williams

 

Ray Bard, Chairman of the board of Wizard Academy
and Dr. Oz Jaxxon, Chairman Elect.

Dear Roy,
 
Dreamers are foolish people. Their job is to come up with all this grandiose crap and our job is to ridicule them for being so “foolish”. You, on the other hand are the worst kind of dreamer—you actually make your dreams happen.  That is why I totally respect you.  I have always been a dreamer and although I haven't always reached my dreams, at least I know that they're not foolish dreams.  You are my example. 
 
Seven years ago, I attended Wizard Academy in Buda at your humble ranch (which was phenomenal, by the way…)  This past weekend, I attended “Writing for Radio and the Internet” at your new location. Wow…it was the ultimate “before and after” scenario.  The Chapel, Engelbrecht house, Tuscan Hall.  Again, I look at what you've done in four short years and know that anything's possible.
 
That is the refreshing part about who you are and what you write about.  You are the poster child of practicing what you preach.  Case in point: I stayed at Engelbrecht hall during the class and after reading your preparatory emails prepared myself for a sterile college dorm room experience (which would have been fine).  Then I stepped inside my room…truly four-star accommodations.  From the tile, to the artwork to the most comfortable bed ever, Engelbrecht house raised the bar to Everest-like heights. I felt spoiled every single day. 
 
There is another place that does what you do—it's called Disney World.  And you, my friend, are Walt Disney.  What makes the world a better place are the people who give back and invest in the lives of others.  You do that on a daily basis, with your clients who pay you and the outsiders who haven't spent a dime. 
 
Great people surround themselves with great people.  Chris Maddock and Jeff Sexton are two fine examples.  I first met Chris back in Buda and he is as brilliant as ever.  Of all the teachers and professors I have had in my life, you and your staff were the first to help me fall in love with literature.  Thank you for that. 
 
You are making a difference in this world.  I am grateful our paths crossed and I was able to walk with you for awhile… 
 
To the biggest dreamer I know.
 
Steve McKenzie