"It was all started by..."

There's a Walt Disney quote that many are familiar with: "I hope we don't lose sight of one thing—that it was all started by a mouse!" Over the years, as the tiny company grew into a diversified global enterprise, this quote served as a constant reminder for its founder to always stay grounded in the notion that Mickey was simply, as Walt put it: "...a little fellow trying to do the best he could."

Walt Disney clearly identified with his Mouse. "It is understandable that I should have sentimental attachment for the little personage who played so big a part in the course of Disney Productions and has been so happily accepted as an amusing friend wherever films are shown around the world."

Today, with the ever-widening animation landscape and global presence of The Disney Company, let's not lose sight of the one person who started it all. Walt Disney was most certainly a leading force in the establishment, advancement and sustainability of the animation art form, but on this day—December 5th—he'd perhaps want to be best remembered as "...a little fellow trying to do the best he could."

Happy Birthday, Walt!