When I was a young media analyst, I got to attend a number of star-studded events. Of course it took just one moment for any Hollywood type to size me up and realize that I was not one of them, nor especially powerful, and therefore most looked right through me.

But.

One night I was having dinner with a Very Important Studio Executive, at a Very Shmoozy Restaurant. Just after we ordered from the waiter, who did not even glance my way, a teeny tiny and extremely glamorous woman approached our table.

You guessed it. It was Dolly Parton.

After greeting the Very Important Person, she turned and looked me right in the eye, held out her hand, and introduced herself (as if that were necessary). After their quick conversation, she turned again, apologized for interrupting our dinner, and said goodbye to me. By name.

Since then, I’ve seen Dolly expertly play over a dozen instruments in a single concert. I’ve seen her respond to hostile interview questions with love and grace. I’ve seen her incredible Imagjnation Library grow to over 300 million books. I’ve seen the magic of Dollywood seamlessly combine a bald eagle sanctuary, giant cinnamon rolls, and river splash rides.

But none of that has surprised me as much as the night that she turned my way, and looked me in the eye.

Dear ones, who might we choose to see today?