Remember Betty White's example as we begin 2022

Many years ago, we went to a small theater in Beverly Hills to hear Lorna Luft sing. As most people know, she is one of Judy Garland’s daughters. She is a terrific performer and singer.

We had purchased our tickets, but the doors to the theater had not opened yet. People were milling around talking in small groups. Suddenly, I heard a familiar voice. It was none other than Betty White talking with a couple of her pals. I casually walked up to her and told her how much I had enjoyed her through the years. She was charming. She chatted with me for a few minutes like I was an old friend. She was not diva, just a kind person speaking with an admiring stranger.

I remember Betty telling me that this was the third time she had come to hear Lorna sing. She said it was an outstanding show. She was right. Lorna Luft was fantastic. We loved the show, but it was also so special to meet Betty in person.

Her death on December 31st hit a lot of people hard. The year had already been so difficult with the pandemic and now this beloved actress had passed away ahead of her heralded 100th birthday. What made her so popular with the public? I have a few ideas.

First, she was a positive person. Her mother and father had taught her to be an optimist and look on the bright side of life. She practiced this daily. Betty once said, “Don’t be a professional mourner. Replay the good times.” She believed you had to move on after a tragedy and get on with life.

Second, Betty believed in humor. She enjoyed making people laugh. She always felt it was a life saver. She once said, “If one does not have a sense of humor, one is in trouble.” Betty believed that we needed to lighten up during these difficult times. Betty was always quick on her feet. One of the talk show hosts asked her what her hobbies were outside of acting. Without skipping a beat, she retorted, “Vodka is kind of a hobby.” You can imagine the laughter from the audience.

Third, she had another passion besides acting. She adored animals. She was active in helping dog shelters and zoos. She was very active in programs at the Los Angeles Zoo. Betty stated, “Animals are near and dear to my heart, and I have devoted my life to trying to improve their lives.” Everyone needs a passion in their life. Betty talked the talk and walked the walk. People gravitated toward her as they could see that she was genuinely kind and compassionate to animals.

Fourth, she loved her friends. Betty believed you had to nurture your friendships. She believed that friendships took time and energy. “Oh, I love to laugh. Laughing is the best thing you can do, and fortunately, your friends can make you laugh.”

I imagine Betty White must have visited Palm Springs and enjoyed the beauty of our desert. I do know that this wonderful actress, animal lover and compassionate human being would have been welcomed with open arms by our desert citizens. Our nation has lost one of its brightest stars, but the lessons she taught us about humor, animals and positive living will not be soon forgotten.

Betty White said in an interview, “Laughter keeps everyone feeling wonderful.” I would suggest we keep that that quote in mind as we begin 2022. I believe that for many of us in the valley, she will always be our special Golden Girl.

Ray Matlock Smythe is an author and retired teacher who lives in Cathedral City. Email him at Rayme49@aol.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Remember Betty White's example as we begin 2022