As the countless tributes to Dolly Parton roll in, it’s impossible not to note that her kindness touched millions. Parton had that uncanny way of reaching people through her music and films, but also with her unwavering activism. Sure, with a star this big and bright, world leaders and celebrity colleagues are going to pay their respects. But what made Dolly extra shiny was her ability to reach people beyond their “status.”

I had the true honor of meeting Parton twice, which I wrote about last year. Once when I was a child in Waco, Texas, and then again, as an adult pushing through a crowd just to get near her. In both instances, she reflected her light back onto me, which is rare for someone as famous as her to do. She made me feel, as she did with so many, that I “mattered.”

Upworthy asked our Facebook followers, “How did Dolly Parton impact you personally and the people around you?” The comments flew in quickly, and the answers ran the gamut........

© Upworthy