When I was a little girl I loved Dolly Parton. She was my idol. I sang 9 to 5 until my heart was content. One fine summer evening I parked it in front of my grandmother's TV set, turned on HBO and followed Dolly's career on to The Best Little Whore House of Texas. It might not have been the best message for elementary school, but I adored her.
She seemed so strong and confident in both films. As if she'd take no shit from anyone. She had a strut about her, a bold, emblazoned gate that caught everyone's attention. She is a savvy, business woman. If you peruse her Wikipedia page, the list of her accomplishments is long.
From time to time when I need a powerful message, I'll google Dolly quotes. Because she never fails to inspire me. This month there are four that I find particularly helpful in conquering new goals, staying true to myself, and living life.
"Don't get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life."
I find this particularly powerful from her because she made quite a living. "American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, record producer, actress, author, businesswoman, and philanthropist..." a powerhouse of a woman.
But something not accurately described at times is her marriage. This woman made a life with one man for 51 years. A very private man who didn't want to step out into the limelight with her. 51 years. Talk about making a life. Look her up for her philanthropy and the list is nearly as long as her career!
What women are girls looking up to now? First, I believe they are looking up to US. It is on you to show up for your daughter and teach her to love herself, empower herself, make a life, and be kind. If you could use a little motivation to do that for yourself from time to time, I understand (why do you think I'm googling Dolly Parton in the middle of the night?)
So ask yourself, are you making a life? Here is what I want to hear:
I'm trying. When you can say, "yes! I am trying!" Then you're on the right path. Maybe trying for you is getting through couples therapy, signing a new lease, setting up doctors appointments, working overtime to save for college, learning a new braid, painting with girlfriends, dancing in your kitchen, traveling the world, chairing that committee, carpooling, paying the bills --- WHATEVER IT IS --- you have to make a life. YOU CANNOT ALLOW IT TO HAPPEN TO YOU. You are the main character in this show, and if you will own the role, pull up your big girl pants and take responsibility for all the good, bad, and ugly parts - YOU WILL SHINE.