An Open Apology To Dolly Parton
Dear Dolly,
I’ll be honest. I used to think you were a bimbo. I used to think you flaunted your big boobs, teased hair, tiny waist, and your syrupy-sweet southern accent to sell yourself and your brand as a country singer. Granted, I was raised in the Midwest and lived as an adult for many years in the Northeast. I didn’t get you, much less the South.
For example, I’d heard about your origins as a poor girl from the hills of East Tennessee, and when I learned you’d created a theme park in your native Sevier County I rolled my eyes. “Really, a theme park?” I thought. “As if rollercoasters will really help the people of rural Appalachia. Why not create something truly useful to give back to your community, like a library.”
Oh.
You have created a library, actually, and possibly in a bigger and more magical way than any brick structure filled with books could. And this is where my understanding of who you are really began to shift.
When I moved to Knoxville eight years ago I received a welcome letter from “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.” It informed me that Dolly’s vision was to foster a love of reading among preschool children by mailing a specially selected book each month directly to any child under the age of 5. You had expanded it from Sevier County to my county, and if I had a preschool age child, it said, all I needed to do was sign her up and she would begin receiving books each month.
My daughter was not quite two then, and I can still see how her face lit up each time we pulled a book addressed to her out the mailbox every month. Several of them became her early childhood favorites, and are stored away should she have children of her own some day.
As a writer and editor, I’m a book hound and made sure my daughter has been exposed to reading at every turn. But you know better than anyone that not all kids have that privilege. I can’t imagine what a magical gift receiving a book every month must be for kids whose parents can’t afford to buy them or who don’t have easy access to a library. I quickly came to see the genius of your Imagination Library literacy program, and how you were making a difference in so many ways I never realized.
Your father was illiterate, which fueled your literacy passion. Now the Dolly Parton Imagination Library just surpassed gifting one million books to participating children around the world each month. To celebrate, your Dollywood Foundation randomly selected one of those children to receive a $30,000 college scholarship. Two-year-old Evey, from Conway, Arkansas, has no idea yet how fortunate she is, but her parents surely do.
But what finally brings me to this overdue apology is how I’ve seen you respond to the devastating wildfires that swept through your hometown communities of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. At least 14 vibrant lives were taken tragically too soon, and thousands of buildings and homes were damaged or destroyed.
You made a public statement saying that you were heartbroken, while also expressing deep gratitude to the firefighters who protected Dollywood and evacuated everyone staying there to safety. Dollywood is the place I once dismissed, but now know is the largest employer in Sevier County and is the largest ticketed tourist attraction in Tennessee, hosting over 3 million guests a season. East Tennessee will count on that tourism to rebuild.
With the humble generosity and graciousness I’m learning is signature Dolly Parton, you’re not only planning a telethon to raise funds for the fire victims, but you’ve also created the My People Fund to provide, as you say, a “hand up to all those families who have lost everything in the fires.”
Those struggling families—and there are hundreds of them—will receive, thanks to you, $1,000 a month for 6 months. Countless stories detail how these families escaped with literally minutes to spare, and with nothing but the clothes they were wearing. And with each story, there’s a strong undercurrent of hope about how strangers helped one another and how this region is “mountain strong.” Your generosity both reflects and inspires this region’s spirit and resiliency.
Tonight, my daughter, who is now 9 and also loves to sing and act, has been using face paint to dress up as one of the DC comic heroines she and her friends admire. When she finished, she asked, “Hmmm, what other Superhero girl do I admire?”
I sat down next to her and said, “Let me tell you about Dolly.” In fact, I hope to take her to a Christmas show at Dollywood during this season of gratitude, and I’ll be making a donation to your My People Fund. I can’t imagine a more inspiring place to be, or a better way to support an amazing example of what it looks like to make the world a stronger place, starting with your own sweet community.
Dolly, I’m sorry I didn’t get you sooner—and I thank you for all you are, and all that you do.
Your biggest new fan,
Amy Rawe
_____
Read a Q&A with Amy about this post: An “Open Apology” Gone Viral
WBIR interview: Writer publishes heartfelt apology, thank you to Dolly Parton
Rawe-struck 
I can only imagine what this world would be like if there was more Dolly Partons in the world. This woman is truly an amazing woman with a heart of gold. The love she has for her town and community is totally unshakable. I went to a concert of hers when she was in VA beach area, would love to go to more but money is tight and let me tell you, the love of that woman just over flows into the crowd, she makes you feel good from the top of your head to the bottom of your feet. God Bless you Dolly Parton, you truly are an Angel and a God send.
Merry Christmas Dolly Parton and family
wow, you must really hate life.
Why are you so bitter jeanie. I will pray for you. Everyone has a choice.
Your father chose that job, don’t blame dolly for his death. Just some information “DOLLY” pays her employees very good. Not to mention pays them even on days the park is closed. I know that 100%….
Wow, hate much? Why so bitter? Your father, like so many other fathers worked their tails off to support their families. He received no accolades, obviously didn’t make millions, and died a very painful death, but why take out your bitterness on someone who is giving back, and who seems genuine in doing so? Did you read the whole letter, or did you just surmise because she’s a celebrity that she’s only doing what she’s doing for praise? I met Dolly Parton many many years ago and if there was ever a person as real as the day is long, it’s her. So put your jealousy aside, honor your father for the man he was, and help someone else if you can. If not, trust me, there will always be someone who will, and in this case this woman is putting her money where her mouth is, and I for one, wish there were more people who thought about others more than they think about themselves.
Why are you taking your anger out on Dolly? Why aren’t you mad at the people who are responsible for your Dad’s black lung? The coal barons, the officials who have tried their best to cheat and swindle the coal miners? I lost a brother in the deep mines in East KY in 1982. It’s not Dolly’s fault. We all do the best we can. Dolly has worked her whole life and she has given back to so many people in so many ways. I love her and respect her for all she does for her people. Without Dolly’s investments in the land and the people of Sevier County TN, do you know what their economy and standard of living would be like? She has touched the lives of many children,too.Your anger is only going to eat you alive.Seize the day.
You know, I have read all these comments and I feel surprised about all this “God-like” praise given to Miss Parton. Yes, she donates lots to others and she employs many, but she is also making millions from the hard work and dedication of those people, many of whom, I am sure, are minimum wage employees. She will also claim all those donations on her income tax and will receive great financial benefit because of it. So, that being said, guess who I admire? My Dad. He worked in the WV coal mines his whole life to support a family of ten children and he died of black lung because of that. Not once did anyone buy a ticket to watch him do his job nor did anyone sing his praises. So get over it. She is just another millionaire performing her job which is to make as much money as she can amass. She is not God.
Somehow you turned an early literacy program for poor kids into fluffy idolatry. Way to go, grumpy.
Jeanie, your dad sounds like an amazing man, and he absolutely deserves all of your respect and admiration. I just don’t understand why you feel such an emptiness in your life that you need to tear down the good works of others. Sure, Dolly is wealthy and successful in her profession, but if you believe her “job” is to make as much money as possible, you too have missed something along the way.
No she is not God. No one has said that she was. Are you doing anything to help the people who lost everything in the fire? She is. I am truly sorry for you that you are that negative about anything and everything. There needs to be a lot more Dollys in this world and fewer of you. God Bless and Merry Christmas!!!!!!
Lighten up Grinch. I dont compare her to God. She’s human like you and me and she gives back a lot. Probably more than many could even imagine. Why not share praise for people who do good works. Why should she be punished by your words for being talented & sharing her talent and gifts? I’m Sorry you’re bitter. She’s human first. Remember that. Oh, and have a Snickers.
I know, right! People have feelings; evidently she doesn’t
No one said she was God, and she has never claimed to be, she has worked hard to get were she is. I’m sure you have paid a high dollar for something during your life time that made someone else rich, so you back off. Who are you to judge? If anyone is acting God like, it’s you judging. I hate your dad died from black lung and you should admire him but don’t put Dolly Parton down. She is doing good for the people.
No one said she was God AND she does not have to give any money to anyone. What are you doing to help others?
Wow im glad that u had a wonderful providing father… I have one as well.. But why the hatred? Dolly is a truelly good hearted down to earth lady. She may be a millionaire but not many of those give a crap about the little people. Dolly came from nothing and has never forgotten that and always appreciates her roots. Shes a giving and thoughtful lady that truelly cares for others. Noone is calling her God.. But her actions are Godly.. Thats how we are supposed to act! To strive to be a Godly person in our actions.
Sorry there are such haters and unhappy ppl ready to strike out at someone striving to help ppl they dont even know
Jeanie, I also greatly admire your Dad, and the millions of family men like him who quietly and humbly live their lives to take care of their families. However, that doesn’t make it impossible to admire Dolly Parton too. She is where is is today because of her own hard work, and becoming wealthy doesn’t invalidate her as a human being with a desire to give back to her community and help others.
WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU???YOU ARE SO FULL OF ENVY? JELOUSY?? OR JUST A HATEFUL PERSON. I CANNOT UNDERSTAND WHY YOU WOULD BE SO CRITICAL OF THIS WOMAN. SHE HAS WORKED HER WHOLE LIFE IN COUNTRY MUSIC AND USED HE GOD GIVEN TALENT TO HELP OTHERS. IN MANY WAYS, SHE HELPS WITH UPLIFTING SONGS, THAT BRILLANT SMILE AND ALWAYS SMILING. SHE HAS A BIG HEART, A BEAUTIFUL VOICE AND Thank GOD SHE IS A CHRISTIAN.WHO YOUR FATHER WAS DOES NOT MATTER TO THE WORLD, IT IS WHO YOU ARE THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE TO THE WORLD.WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO HELP OTHERS??OR WHAT HAVE YOU GIVEN TO THE WORLD??
MY VOTE IS ON DOLLY.SHE IS A WOMANWHO GIVES FROM HER HEART AND ONE WHO LOVES FULL OUT,I VOTE FOR DOLLY EVERY TIME.
Jeanie, I wonder how bitter you might be about all the other aspects of your life. Sorry about your Dad by the way, but glad he was such a good man and father. I will keep you in my prayers (to the real God) that life eases up on you a little. I’ll bet the good people of Dolly’s area consider themselves fortunate that she decided to create her ‘greedy enterprise’ right there where it would most benefit those deserving to profit a little from a display of their particular way of life and heritage, rather than overseas, LA, or even Nashville. Please try to always see the good in things first… and maybe… guessing… smile more.
Jeanie, it sounds like you really love and miss your dad. He is what is called an unsung hero to your family. I’m sure your dad had it very hard. Dolly came up very poor and no doubt has seen plenty of need in her days. She is able to use her talents making others happy and giving to those who are having a hard time. Losing everything is a very hard time. What so many of us admire is she has not forgotten her roots and she helps people. I’ve never met her, but hear that she is genuinely a nice person. That’s one reason for all the kind words for her.
I’m glad you admire your dad’s hard work. Dolly does not claim to be God, she is humble, she is loving, she is giving, she makes a difference in a lot of people’s lives. I don’t understand your negativity, she gives books to children to teach them to love to read. She has a God given talent, she uses it to share her life stories, to share with less fortunate people. Yes she makes money from Dollywood, she is a smart woman, she used her money to build something that people love. A place to take their families, a place to make memories. I doubt her employees make minimum wage, I’ve been to Dollywood, I’ve talked to people who work there, vendors who sell the things they make. I don’t know how many people she employs but I know it’s a lot. People have jobs because of her dreams, I’ve been there before Dollywood was big, possible before there was a Dollywood. There used to be nothing there, no jobs, people had to find work elsewhere. Bands, singers get their start at Dollywood. Some become famous because they got an opportunity to play there, they become known through their work there. To me it’s a win win business, people who work there are happy to do so, to have a job close to where they live. They make money, Dolly makes money, the people I’ve talked to like working there. She’s a smart business woman, she’s passionate about kids, about music, about her family. Her talent and smart business sense got her where she is today. She came from rags to riches, she worked hard to get where she is. To me she’s proof of the American dream.
Yes, I’m a huge fan of hers. I’ve watched her grow, I read her book many, many years ago and I love her story. To me, she gives people hope and love.
I wish you well in life, love and happiness.
Jeanie, have you worked there yourself? I have 3 relatives that have worked in Dollywood and I promise you, NO ONE makes minimum wage and she is extremely good to her employees. She has done many great things for our area. And, not one person said she was God. YOU brought that up. You really need to search inside yourself. You sound like a very bitter and broken woman. Sorry about your dad, but you do not know what you’re talking about when it comes to Dolly. Open your heart and your mind. It will help you tremendously. I feel such sadness for you right now.
Blessings and healing prayers being sent your way.
Hmm… Jeanie I must say that is really negative. So she is a person with a lot of money but guess what she worked hard to get there. Anyone and everyone wants to prosper in life and that is exactly what she did. You know if it was not for her who knows what these families would have gotten from others i can guarantee you it would not have been $1000 a month for six straight months. Thanks to her being wealthy she is able to do this. This is not even something that she is forced to do her good heart made this happen. If you were in the situation these families were in I am pretty sure you would have appreciated her good heart of giving. Truth is that everyone has a job and many work hard and might never see billions in their account but we must thank God for what we have and not be jealous of others.
Jeanie, you know your dad caused many deaths by polluting the world with that coal he mined just to make a buck. Why should we worship him? Wasn’t he a murderer?
Do I believe that? No. He was probably an honorable man, even if he did raise a whiney petulant child. But there are many who would see him as a monster for mining coal. See how easy it is to see the other side? You might want to change the way you see things….and people. I’d be in a bad way if not for wealthy people. I’ve certainly never worked for a poor one, other than myself if course. Merry Christmas Jeanie.
Jeanie,
My condolences on your father’s passing. I imagine it’s a hard thing to witness. I can only hope that your love and memories give you strength and resolve in times of need. I was raised by a single mamma. I know that witnessing her strength has made me a strong woman. I would imagine it is similar to having a hard working father who sacrifed himself for his family. Have a blessed holiday season.
Sincerely,
Samantha G.
You are one messed up person, Jeanie. The owners of the mine in which your dad worked, were most likely well off also. Do you despise them too? You sound like a grumpy, unhappy, unsatisfied, very negative person! Try to look at the bright side of life….it’ll make you much happier! I have loved Dolly since I first heard “Coat of Many Colors” as a child! She loves her family, friends, her life and above all, God. It is good for people to have others they can look up to! Deal with the fact that there are people who are financially better off than you, better talented than you, smarter than you, and be thankful that you have more than many, have more talent than some and are smarter than some. Have you helped anyone else lately?
Wow the vitriole Jeanie.
Her fathered worked in a coal mine also. A lot of those kids raised in the poorest areas of Appalachia did what they knew how to do with no tv, no phones no distractions as all of us have now. They sang , Some just for there own enjoyment, some in the church and some very lucky ones actually discovered their God given talents and used them to the betterment of their lives and the enjoyment and enrichment of ours. She did grow up poor. Now my Daddy’s family was from the coal mine area in Kentucky but WWII came along and he went to war. When he got out he went , finished school and became a lawyer and at some point met my Mom who came from a poor but “genteel” family from Louisville. He and thus my brothers and sisters and I got out. Some do , some don’t . A lot is choice, a lot is luck. Dolly embodies the spirit of giving that she learned from her parents. Is she perfect no I am sure she is not. Is she a millionaire , yes. Will she take the tax deduction, probably yes because then that leaves her more cash to help families next year in case 6 months isn’t long enough to get back on their feet. I hope that very few share your view of the world. I for one prefer to see the good. Love to you and your family. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas. As for me I would at this point take a minimum wage job but after losing one where I made a good salary, companies won’t hire me, not because of my qualifications but because they would be afraid I would leave if I got something better. Probably true but now from 75 K a year to can’t get 7.25 hour I still remain hopeful. I hope you can
Beautiful write Amy! I’m sure dolly appreciates it even though she never knew your thoughts till now. The Tennessee mountains are a wonderful place full of lovely caring people! The people of the area are very blessed to have dolly on there side ! I hope the area can make a speedy recovery and get back to everyday life asap! They are always in my prayers. God bless and Merry Christmas!
DOLLY WE LOVE YOU!!! 🙂
We could only pray for more amazing people like Dolly in this world!!
I have always loved Dolly. Love her music and her movies. She is a great person for helping all those families One day when I have the money would love to go to DollyWood Merry Christmas and God bless you Dolly
If we ever get the money and the time, I would love to go to Dollywood. I would also like to know how to sign my grandchildren up for those library books if they are anywhere but Tennessee. Thank you Dolly for all that you do for people.
They are available in many locations, not just TN. It depends on if your town or county signed up for the program. Go to the site and see if it’s in your area. Imaginationlibrary.com
love tennessee. love dolly. love this blog post. love it.
Her Theme park is amazing. Nothing like Six flags or places with long lines to rise the biggest coaster. In fact, there are few big rides and more shows giving young and aspiring artists a place to show their talent. Great shows. Shows that will make you laugh until your belly hurts, or maybe she’s a tear of happiness and joy. The holidays from Thanksging to New Years are best spent at Dollywood for magical lights, amazing food and A plus entertainment and shopping. I call it the most non-annoying amusement park ever built. Did I mention the food is spectacular! Beans & cornbread like my grandma used to make!
Then you have to see Dolly’s Eagles. Rescued, injured Bald Eagles she has adopted and given a beautiful place to live. Dozens of them. To see them
First hand is spell binding. My favorite is one I call “Leftie” who only has one wing. Challenged no less, but well cared for and still with that fierce look in his eyes we Associate with freedom and patriotism.
Dolly is a special gift God created to “create change in our world and our hearts.”
Love (sarcasm) the fact that there are those that hold ill will because there may be someone that works for one of her corporate entities that makes minimum wage!!!
THAT, for heaven’s sake, is what you take away from the effects she and her companies have on the region. For crying out loud, there is no appeasing folks like you.
Way to go Dolly. Haven’t been to PF in a long time, but I may have to go just to contribute to the local economy.
I live in western North Carolina which is also Appalachia. Maybe that is why we have always known what a true treasure Dolly is. When my daughter applied to Chapel Hill one of the essay questions was, ” if you could invite any three people in history to have dinner with, who would you invite? “. She responded that she would invite Dolly Parton because she wanted to eat dinner with people who modeled kindness and love and understanding and acceptance and she wanted to have a really good time and laugh a lot. Dolly is the real deal. That may sound funny as a way to describe her but she often pokes fun at all of her accoutrements like the time she played percussion on her fingernails at a concert And then reminded us that we couldn’t do that if we had real fingernails She went on to poke fun at other enhancements that she enjoyed. But if you listen to her words and songs you know her heart and you know that Dolly is the real deal.
Pure sour grapes. Dolly did for herself and she does a lot for others. Criticizing her for making a lot of money is such a small thing to do. Shame on you!
Grumpy
Not to lord it over anyone that didn’t catch on early, but as a country music fan back when country music still got plated on country radio, I was stunned not only by the amazing appearance, which to these New Jersy eyes were rather startling, but first the voice when she was still partnered with Porter Wagner. Then I started noticing the writing credits. Coat of Many Colors, For Daddy and I Will Always Love You. For those of you who came late to the party on that last one, Dolly’s original recording of that back in the early 70s is the definitive recording of it. Later recordings by various artists and even a re-recording by Dolly herself do not touch the raw emotion of that first recording.
Dolly is many amazing things, but if all she ever did was songwriting she would still be a giant in the music industry. And she has the biggest, deepest heart of almost anyone I’ve ever heard of.
Dolly Parton has always been an honest, up front type of gal. She is incredibly talented, being able to sing, write and act. She has used her physical attributes to gain attention, but has always said “it takes a lot of money to look this cheap”. I don’t know what the employees of Dollywood earn, but even if it is minimum wage, it is a JOB. Otherwise all those people might be living on welfare or chopping wood to sell. She may get tax breaks, but I doubt that is the reason she does these things. The area of Southeastern Tenn. would be a far worse place without her. The tourist industry is about all they have unless you are a nuclear scientist. If you want to be down on somebody, be down on someone who has a ton of money but never gives anything back. There are a lot of lawyers, corporate executives and televangelists out there.
Jeanie, outside of his own, who or how did he help others in this world? Something to think about. Think of the many many people that are being helped because of her, Dolly…Not just her own family….she see’s beyond her own nose. Sorry if I hit a nerve about your father, but you may want to open YOUR heart to others before criticizing others and what OTHERS are doing to help. How are you helping the fire victims? Are you at all?
Have always loved her as an entertainer, but especially love knowing how much she has always given back through the years, it was no surprise that she is,doing what she is doing for her community, it’s who and what she is. I think those of us that have followed her, have heard about how much she gives back, it’s good to hear that a new generation is recognizing her.
“I will always love you”, Dolly 👍💖👑. She is amazing. Always loved her since a child – the humor, the positivity, the simplicity of her heart, her confidence, & her trademark beauty : ). Deep & simple roots taken very seriously. A true heart for others & a class act 💖
The only people who think ill of Dolly are people who have never met her. I have never talked to someone who has met her, even for a moment, who doesn’t love her. Dolly treats everyone she meets like she would want to be treated, like family. Most people don’t know that Dolly is really flat chested. That swelling is her heart.
Interesting that in the comments I read, for all the positive comments, judgement, and political nonsense, no one thanked Amy for the link to Dolly’s foundation so they could make a donation for the fire victims. So . . . Thanks, Amy, for the link to Dolly’s foundation and your effort, in publicizing Dolly’s pledge, to help her raise the money for these folks. I’m headed there now to make a donation.
Thank you Dolly for everything you do for the people of Tennessee. I Pray other other celebrities would follow your example.You are beautiful inside and out..Love you Dolly!!
As a small women with a large bra size I know that Dolly was already considered too sexy and getting bad judgement just from a bra size. Being in the public eye would make it harder to combat that. She just beat everyone to the punch by speaking and dressing to make it less hurtful when the remarks started coming. Making it part of her act helped her to overcome that handicap. I am very glad you saw the light and stopped judging over a body part. God Bless!!!!
I always recalled a wisecrack she made in an interview when someone asked about her appearance; “It takes real money to look this cheap!”
A coworker went to Dollywood a few years ago and was talking to a friend of his about what he thought of the place, remarking about some things that he thought could be done better. A voice behind him pipes up, “Why don’t we sit and talk about that a bit?” He turns around and it’s Dolly; she spent ten minutes sitting on a park bench with him, discussing what he liked and didn’t like about the park. I’ve since read that she spends a lot of time at the park, talking to customers about what they think of the place and what could be done better.
I have always admired Dolly due to her humility, songwriting/singing talent and her hilarious homespun humor. I’ve seen all of her films, been to Dollywood several times and two of her concerts. One of my favorite songs is when Dolly plays to banjo to sing Apple Jack. You are never bored at her concerts because she gives it her all and talks between songs about her childhood and trips to Nashville with her uncle before fame. Thank you, Dolly for helping those in need, especially the Sevier County fire survivors as well as promoting literacy with The Imagination Library.
Its so sad that a person can’t be a good person an get pleasure out of helping, giving an loving people an folks think there is a catch. God its so so sad people are so small minded an bigoted an ignornate an can’t see the goodness in someone’s heart. So what if she makes a little money here an there. You wouldn’t do any of it for free now would you ? of course not. I have followed Dolly since I was young an she has done so much for people that some folks couldn’t phathom ..Why? Because its the country way,its country folk an that’s the way we are. No better than anyone but if there’s a need an a way you help.God people need to grow up an quit being so self centered an judgemental an thinking they are the right hand of god to be able to have the right to judge. Get over your self an be part of the solution not the problem.
?
R
Dolly has rough hands like old dry leather. Not many people know this, but I do.
I’ve always loved Dolly. Aside from all you mentioned she also has donated Millions to the Tennessee hospitals. There is a entire breast cancer wrong she did! She is REAL and has a heart for people and God. We need more Dolly’s
Way to go Jeanie….typical liberal response. if someone is ambitious-hard working, and becomes wealthy, they must have took advantage of someone else. But, if you’re making minimum wage, or on welfare you are the victim of some rich person. I’ve got news for you, if not for some ambitious, wealthy person, no one would have a job. Dolly has worked hard her entire life to be successful. Jealousy, and contempt for others gets you nowhere. Ask Hillary..
You see, now you just judged somebody, assuming she was a liberal and that’s how all of us liberals feel. I love and adore Dolly Parton and all that she does. You missed the point of this article. None of us should assume, and/or judge. God bless you and your loved ones, and merry Christmas.
First, you should never have judged her, or anyone, especially based on being from the south as you seem to indicate that you based part of your opinion on. Sadly and frustratingly, many not from the south tend to do that.
We in the south are great people. We nod and say “hi” to strangers when we pass on the city sidewalks. We say excuse me when we bump into someone, or step aside to allow them room to pass. When driving through residential areas, we wave at those outside, whether we know them or not, just as a friendly gesture, and guess what; they wave back! We speak to our neighbors and ask how they’re doing, and we mean it when we ask it. We love and help our neighbors in times of need. I’m over 2 hours away from Sevier County, but many of us here where I live have chipped in and donated many things, or gone down and given “ourselves” in whatever way is needed. Many of our firefighters in this region are unpaid volunteers who give their time to saving homes, businesses and lives. I know several different local depts. that sent teams down there to help battle the blaze. Without that good ole southern help, who knows how much more damage would have occurred because there simply was not enough manpower in the immediate area to handle it. —How many fire depts. in areas of the northeast, especially in places like NYC are all volunteers? Very few, I’m sure.
Beyond that, you missed another very important fact about Dolly and Dollywood. Inside the park is the American Eagle Foundation that she founded. (eagles.org is the website). Challenger, the free flying eagle that appears at many sporting events and other things all over the country, lives there. They have Osceola there, the one winged eagle that they’ve been taking care of for years. (look him up on youtube and you’ll see how a handler took him flying again. It will bring tears to your eyes if you have any heart at all, like we do in the south and it seems that you do, but just were misguided in your opinion of Dolly and the south.) She has other non-releasable eagles that are mating pairs, and due to that fact, the AEF has been able to release over 100 bald eagles around the country to date, helping to bring their numbers back up. If you go to Dollywood, you can see them in the aviary. It’s the main attraction for me in the place. They, and all the other raptors housed there were safely evacuated during the fires. Pet stores donated carriers to help do this, such as PetSmart. (giving credit where it is due.)
You need to watch her movies about her childhood. One just aired “Christmas Of Many Colors” and will replay on Dec. 23rd on NBC. You can also watch it on the NBC website for free. There was another one before this, called “Coat of Many Colors” I believe. Both movies give you great insight about her very humble upbringing. She produced both. Her humble beginnings (along with a bit of good ole southern stubbornness) molded her into the wonderful person she is today.
I’m really glad you’ve learned who the “real” Dolly Parton is. We knew it all along. 🙂 Thank you for your apology, because I feel that in a way, it extends to all southerners in general. Have a blessed day!
Those two movies were really great, weren’t they? And it really opened up my eyes to learn that Dolly “was born that way.” She was famous in her own mind before fame actually came to her. That she is generous to her fans financially is nothing compared to how generous she is with her heart. If Dolly says she loves you, you are loved. Nothing phony about her…well, except a few physical attributes. What counts is her humanity not her vanity.
Yes Lori. Both movies gave us great insight as to what molded Dolly into the wonderful, generous person she is today. 🙂
There is also rescue work going on there for Eagles and other raptors ! One of the first things done during the fires was to evacuate these precious birds to safety! Dolly has a very big heart!
Am sure if Jeanie was offered 1000 dollars to help her out she wouldn’t say no and wouldn’t worry if the donor was claiming tax relief.
I have lived in the neighboring state of Virginia my whole life, I can tell you know I’ve been coming to East Tennessee since I was 3 months old, I have visited Dollywood countless times, and every other attraction in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg as I am now 30 years old and have a son that is 6 it’s been the same way for him.
This Community has been a second home to my family and very many of my friends as we only live a few hours away as many of us have second homes and condos and cabins and this community it hit us very hard as well.
Miss Dolly Parton has done an amazing job ever since she was a little girl and she hasn’t stopped for Sevier County, and she never will. I know this will always be her home as it is ours and she will always help prevent no matter what, we have always looked up to her and she’s always been a hero of mine.
Dolly is a wonderful person, always has been. Dolly, my husband & I sat down at watched your movie, Circle of Love. When it was over my husband said to me that’s the best movie I’ve ever seen. We both love it. We’re ready for the next movie..
Amy Rawe, a wise man once said…”It is better to remain silent, and thought a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt!
Opening her mouth did not prove her a fool. It proved in the past she had foolish thoughts because she didn’t know enough but as she has more knowledge now she understands more. A foolish person is one who is unable and/or unwilling to gain knowledge and admit they were wrong. Amy has proved she is no fool and has brought up a topic of judging others without having all the details. She has pointed out just how much we can all miss out on when we erroneously judge others without knowing them or their actions. And she is a big enough person to appologize.
I have always admired her talent and generosity. I learned a lot more about her, too, when we vacationed in Gatlinburg this past August. My daughter and her family were caught in the wildfires, when they also went there, but they escaped , and we are blessed that they did. Thank God.
Since then I have followed Dolly’s efforts, for her community, even more so. I have decided that she is definitely an Earth Angel. God her and I pray that she lives a long, happy and healthy life so that she may continue.
The saying you should have learned as a child, never judge a book by the cover! Dolly Parton is a well known actor, singer, song writer, business woman, but more than that she has always been a kind woman. It was nice that you wrote an apology, because your daughter received free books, or you heard of how she is gracious an kind, but your a woman that judged her by her appereance alone. Your apology, if you really could call it that, still stings to the touch, because you presumed you knew her because of what she looked like. As a mother, I pray you didn’t teach your daughter to look at people, and judge only what they see. I remember watching “Smoky Mountain Christmas” as a child, and wishing all orphans find someone to love them like she did. I think your apology could use a lot ot work, and Dolly if you read this I hope you know one thing. The content of your character, as well as the grace you show to those in need, is the first thing that is visible to those of us who have made your music ,and movies a part of our traditions during the holiday and throughout the year. Merry Christmas, and God Bless!
Amy Rawe: You say you’re an editor, but you missed one: “…you had expanded it from Sevier Country to…” Surely you meant “County.”
Dolly is Dolly..I read her books ..she makes no pretense to be just who she is …I too walked to the mailbox for my graND children’s free books and we were so thrilled..Thank you Dolly for being just who you are…you were given a gift from God and you share it…Some folks will never get it…..nice to know you are who you are…God Bless ya for the help honey!!
Reblogged this on Simplifying Healthy Lifestyle Changes and commented:
A lovely read.
I believe we need more movies just like the last two Dolly has done. Likewise, Tyler Perry, also has made some great ones.
As a small women with a large bra size I know that Dolly was already considered too sexy and getting bad judgement just from a bra size. Being in the public eye would make it harder to combat that. She just beat everyone to the punch by speaking and dressing to make it less hurtful when the remarks started coming. Making it part of her act helped her to overcome that handicap. I am very glad you saw the light and stopped judging over a body part. God Bless!!!!
Kudos to Dolly, and for her big heart and generosity. Also to the writer of this apology. Glad you awakened.
I think Dolly is quite sincere, and very talented -and has a heart os gold!
Reblogged this on Minister Is A Verb and commented:
Rebloggibg to boost the signal. Dolly Parton is a class act, even if far too many people don’t see it.
Wow….you ill ass people are you fucking kidding me…..really…..dont be jealous of someones success. Bottom line….doesnt matter why or how she is gonna do it nor rather she has any gain………put yourself in the persons shoes that has nothing and has lost everything. Thats the only people that matter. Her gain is none of their concern. They are gonna be better off for her generosity NO MATTER WHAT. …BOTTOM LINE…….
Jeanie, please be careful with the words of your mouth. It is easy to be bitter when you have to struggle and fight for so much in life. I can assure you I understand these attitudes but we are wrong! Dolly Parton may be wealthy but she has given back so much.
I’ve always loved you Dolly but, now I have several reasons to admire you more…
Dolly- I have always been a huge fan of yours. Your talent is only surpassed by your kindness and loving nature and the massive size of your heart.. You are a true hero and an absolute role model in my eyes. Thank you for sharing your life, love and beautiful voice with us everyday!!
I did know about Dolly’s kindness and generosity. The Dolly we see on stage is a persona that she puts on. The Dolly you don’t see is the warm hearted, loving and generous soul that works behind the scenes to help so many people. Glad you finally ‘got’ her!!
I dint know that it was just Rwandese who loved Her,At a young age I just loved her songs Not so may where I come from love country music understands the language,or even care less but I can tell you most of them knew who she is. And love her songs and in fact Since i had this aportunity to be here in the USA I had no idea she did this things i’am reading in this apology letter..she is sure an inspiration to so many young generation and what they can do to their community,Including myself,I never had a single thought about Tennessee until that fire at some point I thought well it’s Acting just like any other Hollywood actors when it comes to a disaster,for instance Black lives matter,The Kneeling of a flag,them in politics..But in Fact she is a Hero to so many and I will take back my thoughts.,Maybe in the future I might not see her in person as one of her Fun but I might consider a Trip to Tennessee,and their maybe my dollar might count.,late of course but I will be proud that I have contributed..I think Dolly’s heart is as beatfull as her and that makes me Love her even more..
Reblogged this on Writing on Board and commented:
It’s so easy to stereotype, isn’t it? Pooh-poohing someone who is different? I love that this mother shares her own process of rethinking at least one judgement she made. I’m right there with her.
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