The Iron Butterfly

"Well, are you sure ma'am? Okay. . . if that is your final decision. . . thank you. . . thank you very much."

With his trademark style Elvis Presley was not used to being turned down or refused.

But in the 1970's, when a popular Elvis wanted to sing one of Dolly Parton's' songs, she refused him. It was his standard practice to have 1/2 of the publishing rights and she felt that was too much control and not in her best interest.

The result of that stubborn decision was millions of dollars and the nickname: "the Iron Butterfly." The song that resulted was “I’ll Always Love You” which would later be sung by Whitney Houston as part of the 1992 movie, The Bodyguard.

So how did this country gal end up a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?

She endured. She never quit. She ignored rejection and ridicule. She worked. She worked hard. Dolly took risks. Dolly took control of her own career. She made decisions that were the best for her own life. And she gave back.

Dolly has giggled, sung, bounced and joked her way into the hearts of American country music fans everywhere for over 40 years. And Dolly Parton has taken a lifetime to give her voice to many worthwhile projects.

She started with a dream, worked tirelessly and failed often to finally make it as a singing success. Now, if she wanted to, she could spend her time basking in the financial status of a superstar.

But Dolly also has taken seriously her ability to live beyond herself and provides help, employment, resources, and hope to thousands of people around the U.S.

Through a theme park, a literacy program for children and even a bald eagle program, she knows that in order to be fully at peace within herself, she needs to look for ways to give. . . to make a difference. . . to change the life of people wherever she can.

Are you doing that? I hope so. . . Everywhere you look there are places that need an extra hand. . . a daycare needs a reader, a nonprofit needs someone to answer the phones, an animal shelter needs a feeder, a nursing home needs visitors...

Dolly is a favorite singer of mine because she is a prime example of someone pursuing her dreams through the years and giving back to others along the way.

I would encourage you to follow her footsteps and pursue your dreams as you pursue making a difference. It is a dual process. . .hand in hand. . . one hand working for you and the other hand reaching out.