Live Like Dolly

I’ve been thinking a lot about Dolly Parton lately. When I heard the news that she had passed away, it was as if I had lost a favorite aunt. Call it a parasocial relationship, but I don’t think I am alone in my shock and sadness at hearing of Dolly’s passing.

Talk about a life well lived. From a small shack shared with 11 siblings to a worldwide phenomenon. Singer, actress, comedienne, businesswoman, philanthropist, advocate, larger than life personality. That’s a lot of hats to wear on top of that big blonde wig! But it was her love of people that was truly transcendent.

Dolly was an earnest supporter of the LGBTQ community and earned herself a cult-like following of look-alike drag queens that she absolutely adored. Having grown up poor, with a father who couldn’t read, she started the Imagination Library to provide free books to families who may not otherwise afford to have access to books. She showed us that when you know better, you do better. She willingly dropped “Dixie” from her “Dixie Stampede” when she learned that the word Dixie carries a lot of historical pain and trauma for Black and Brown people.

Dolly lived her life boldly and loved people fervently. She is a true embodiment of Christ’s love on earth. In a world that weaponizes Christianity by excluding the “other,” be like Dolly and love one another. Every single other. I mean, can you get any clearer than, “I will always love you”?

Holy One,

Help us to live and love like Dolly.

Amen

Kelly is a mom, wife, teacher, daughter, sister, and friend…and Dolly Parton fan!