I, like so many of you, was beyond inspired by Dolly Parton. She was one of those rare people who seemed capable of bringing everyone together simply by being completely, unapologetically herself. It’s hard to believe she’s gone. It feels like we lost a true national treasure.
If you haven’t listened to Dolly Parton’s America, the podcast hosted by Jad Abumrad, do yourself a favor and start there. I’m not ashamed to admit I cried more than once listening to it. I am slightly embarrassed by how little I knew at the time about the woman who gave us “9 to 5” and “I Will Always Love You.” What struck me most was how long she had been talking about love, acceptance, generosity and being exactly who you are, long before any of those things became fashionable things to say. She somehow managed to have strong beliefs without making people who thought differently feel unwelcome. That feels especially rare right now.
So many of you have loved the pieces we made using Dolly’s words, and I know we’ll continue turning to her for inspiration for years to come.
However you find your own way to Dolly, through the music, the podcast, her incredible philanthropy, her individual style, or simply her sense of humor, I hope she brings a little light into your world. I’m very grateful she did exactly that in mine.
xo Rachelle