This is the first one:
You only get one life and you’re going to burn the days either way, so the real question is: What excites you and interests you? What makes you feel curious and alive, perhaps even joyful? What is so “worth it” that you’re not worried about the tradeoffs, the hard work, the hassle?
Follow your enthusiasm.
And this is the second:
I was born with a happy heart. I’ve always tried to let that shine even during my dark times. I’m one of those people who, even if things are not right, goes about trying to make it as right as I can rather than just lying around on my ass and wallowing in it all day. I think, “Well, I can either do this or I can do that.” I choose to get up and try to make it better if I can…
Of course, I try to improve every day. If there’s a better outfit, I want to wear it. If there’s a better song, I want to write it. If there’s a better record, I want to record it. If there’s a better movie, I want to make it. I will continue to be as good as I can be. And I intend to keep coming up with new ideas all the time.
The second one is more ambitious than I am. But that first one – yes! My self improvement is simply trying to focus my energy and my attention on the things I value. No worldly achievements, just gently trying to say aligned with what’s important to me.
What about you?
November 1, 2026
She was such an upbeat and positive inspiration. I would like to think that I am always trying to be a little better than I was the day before. I’m quite sure that I fall short pretty often though
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I agree with Ann – Dolly was such a positive source of inspiration!
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A HUGE loss.
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I wish I had been born with a happy heart but that was not the case. She seemed like she enjoyed life and enjoyed helping others, which is an excellent way to enjoy life. It would have been amazing to have met her in person.
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We sure miss that special Dolly and her wisdom.
Thank you for sharing these quotes by Dolly Parton, Jean. She was a remarkable woman and did a lot in her life, much of which involved helping others.
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I agree!
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I’m right there with you, Jean. #1 all the way.
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She was a treasure. I was not born with a happy heart or if I was it was changed young. I do try my best to be better.
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It is important to me to keep my donations in line with my values. I don’t care who is asking for money for “good” causes. I support only the ones I truly believe are doing the type of work that supports my values.
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Thank you for sharing these.
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