“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” – Proverbs 3:27
Dolly Parton is a living legend. Few people have achieved the level of success that Dolly Parton has attained. As a musician, Dolly is truly remarkable. She is a singer. She plays multiple instruments. When she is not entertaining massive audiences, Dolly shows off her musical skills by writing hit songs that cross over multiple music platforms. She has written a hit Broadway show and movie. She is one of a few people in history who have been nominated for an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and a Tony award. When she is not writing and performing amazing music, Dolly Parton is starring in movies, TV shows, and building theme parks. She is a bright example of stardom and success.
The success of Dolly Parton is the dream of any musician and entertainer. With a net worth of over $600 million, Dolly could have easily retired to enjoy a life of ease. However, the drive that made her a hall-of-fame entertainer and world-class businessperson, has kept Dolly Parton working long past her debut in 1967. Now, at the age of 76, she is not just entertaining, she is making a difference in the lives of so many people.
In 1995, Dolly Parton helped to launch the Imagination Library. This is a free program that mails free books to children ages birth to five years. Because she witnessed her father struggle to read, she wanted to help others to experience success in literacy. She first started the program in her home county of Sevier County, Tennessee. Within just 8 years, the program had grown across the United States and had mailed over 1 million books. Today, the Imagination Library has sent millions of books to several nations to help others experience the joy of reading. This all happened because of the leadership and financial support of Dolly.
Just this last week, Dolly Parton and the leadership of the Dollywood Parks and Resorts announced that they would now pay the tuition, fees, and books for any employee who wants to further their education. This offer is for all employees and is available the day they start working. It is an extraordinary offering to the staff and a huge potential investment in the dreams of others.
I love the music of Dolly Parton. When I hear Jolene, 9 to 5, and Islands in the Stream, I just must sing along. Her music is so exciting. Her life of generosity, service and kindness are far more than fun, they are inspirational. Dolly Parton is a reminder that our lives are not just our own. To truly live life, enjoy life, experience the fullness of what life can be, we must be willing to give of our time, our resources, and talents. When we live a life of service, we will bless others and help to build a better world.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
