The passing of Dolly Parton is doing something that regional disasters often produce by bringing a wide spectrum of people together feeling a similar sense of loss.
She had a unique way of drawing people together by emphasizing our better nature, resulting in making lives just a little more satisfying. She challenged us to be less judgmental of our differences and become more willing to improve our communities through music, boosting literacy, charitable giving, increasing self esteem, and simply being a better neighbor.
We have the ability to do the same by volunteering at our schools, food banks, supporting youth activities, and donating to regional arts groups and area support programs. As Dolly said, we do not need to judge others. Those who believe in a higher power know that is not our responsibility.
We should allow our differences to give us more insight into the vast spectrum that our nation allows for. It is our “coat of many colors” that other countries often do not allow.
We could all use a little more Dolly in our lives.
Joe Dolezal
Centralia
