What would Dolly do?

This week, we lost a beautiful, irreplaceable soul. There will never be another Dolly Parton.

I've never heard so many admirable adjectives used to describe one human being, but the one I've heard most since her passing is authentic.

From the time she grew up in a one-room cabin with eleven other siblings in Tennessee to the moment she passed at 80, Dolly was unapologetically exactly who she was. And I think that's why she was such a unifying force and was beloved by everyone from the LGBTQ community to NASCAR.

She never shied away from any question and told the truth that came from her heart, because that's the only thing she knew how to do. She was brilliant in business, generous beyond measure, and somehow, through all the success and fame, remained completely and unmistakably Dolly.

Her life and legacy will continue to inspire me and serve as a compass and litmus test: What would Dolly do?

Interestingly, right before my daughter sent me the text with the crying face emoji telling me that Dolly had died, the subject of how status and power can change people had come up in conversation.

It's not a unique story. I've seen it time and again in my career, and we certainly witness it in the world. The very traits and values that help someone get where they are can shift once they get there.

It takes strength of character and intention to remain a steady and consistent force and presence in the world. But when you look at Dolly's life and legacy, you see just how very important and impactful that can be. It's worth the effort.

And whether it was effort for Dolly, I don't know. I'm sure if she was asked, and she probably was, she would have told you the truth.

This morning, while I enjoy my coffee out of this cup that I've chosen almost every day since I bought it in Goodwood, where Schitt's Creek was filmed, I'm reflecting on the child version of myself who grew up on a farm in Saskatchewan, and who I am today, sitting on this porch.

Would those who have known me along the way see, at the seat of my soul, the same consistent human being? I hope so.

Where do you find yourself this day? Wherever it is, I hope the child version of yourself would smile.

Stay true to you,

Tamara