There are times in life when the work we do feels invisible, when no one is paying attention or understands the path we are on. Perhaps, at times, we don't fully understand it ourselves. We only know that it is something that we must do. Something that must be done.
Not the thing that we were told to do, expected to perform, or do simply as a means to please. It is a knowing beyond the expectation of others, beyond motivation, discipline, even desire.
It is devotion.
Devotion isn't about productivity. It isn't about checking off a list, proving what we have accomplished, or accumulating accolades. It is the repetition of showing up on behalf of what calls us, what we came here to do, again and again and again.
I believe, and I have seen a lifetime's worth of evidence, that even the most remote, quiet, or soft-spoken artists, producers, musicians, human beings doing small, good tasks, when doing the thing they are put here on this earth to do, they get found.
Unless you are Dolly Parton. You know who you are, you broadcast it with a deliberate and audacious authenticity that is uniquely and individually your own.
Dolly stayed true to who she was, despite the criticism and the curious stares. She worked harder than anyone evens knows, behind the scenes, when the stage lights were dimmed, when the morning was still dark. She was not quiet, but she was never loud. She was not just found, she made herself seen.
In a time when so much seems to divide us, it’s rare to see someone who can transcend generations, geography, class, culture, and politics, and be so loved and admired the way Dolly was.
Beyond her obvious musical talent for singing and songwriting, what was it about Dolly we loved so much? It was her kindness, her generosity, and yes, her audacity.
“I'm always dreaming. I'm always doing."
This is your reminder. To be who you are. To stand your ground. To show up, do the work, and make it beautiful. Whether you feel seen or not, your work does matter. It does make a difference. The work may not be a job, it may simply (and most importantly) be how you live your life. You never know who you might inspire, whose life you might touch, or who might find courage simply by watching you be who you are and do what you were put on this earth to do.
There will only be one Dolly, but wouldn't the world be a better a place if while we are getting busy being ourselves, we try to emulate our lives a little bit more like Dolly did?
Rest in peace, beautiful lady.
X Alisa
Photo credit: Dolly Parton, unknown