Evelyn Dove Coleman: Dolly Parton Brought Light

The great singer and actor Dolly Parton died at age 80 after being hospitalized at Vanderbilt University Hospital Cancer Center. It was reported that she had kidney problems too. Miss Dolly brought a bright light into all the places she graced. She was petite in stature but had a giant personality and heart. She was the ultimate philanthropist with her millions.

It seems like just about every week or so, someone sends me a notice of a former classmate or schoolmate who has passed away.  Often we have not even heard that the person has been sick.  Death comes suddenly. We find ourselves shocked as we send out the information to inform others. Then as we gather to offer the family support, friends reminisce about how we knew the dearly departed.

The time can be a reminder to live our lives in a way that when our own time comes, we won't have many regrets.  None if possible. We can try to lead healthy lives.  It's not rocket science to eat light and exercise regularly to help keep our body machines chugging along.  Also, it should be simple to not introduce harmful substances into our own selves. Then, treat others well.

Another thing that makes for good living is cultivating hobbies or interests in things in our communities. Clubs and organizations provide the means for socializing with other like-minded people and doing good deeds in the world together.  Churches and Ministries are places of worship and soul restoration. There we can sing the song "All of my good days outweigh my bad days, and I won't complain."  We may not have the angelic voice the late Dolly Parton had, but we can sing out loud anyway.

 Evelyn Dove Coleman established PathChoice Ministry in 1992. Send prayer requests to www.pathchoicepastoralcounseling.weebly.com.