Weekend Economists: "So much to do, so little done, such things to be." April 20-22, 2012 [View all]

[Demeter]

Our thread quotation is from the late, great Elizabeth Taylor, who left this earth 13 months ago. And yet, she is immortal, as long as film and fame last.

...we were all captivated by the life and spirit of Elizabeth Taylor. What struck me the most, in listening to, reading, and watching all the stories about the great actress, was that throughout her remarkable life, she remained true to herself. Her choices were determined not by the wishes or beliefs of others, but by her own truth, her own soul.

The studios were famous for grooming and shaping their talent, just as they pleased. And if you wanted to be a star you sure as heck did what they said. But not a young Elizabeth Taylor. Very early on, then signed to MGM, she refused to acquiesce to the studio’s “request” that she change her name and remove the mole on her face.



She would marry whom she loved and refused to be trapped in relationships that no longer worked. Some might say that she did not respect the institution of marriage. Eight marriages, seven husbands – that’s far too many. But I would argue that, as a passionate, strong-minded woman, Elizabeth was simply unable to abide by anything less than an ideal marriage. It is after all the most incredible gift to humankind, marriage - the opportunity to share love, joy and true connection with another person. Unlike many women, Elizabeth did not need to marry for financial security. She could marry for love. And when the relationship proved to be less than what it was meant to be, she had the courage to be true and to move on....http://www.jewishjournal.com/lifecoachjew/item/elizabeth_taylor_-_always_true_to_herself_39110327/

Or, as Dame Elizabeth herself said: "I am a very committed wife. And I should be committed too - for being married so many times."

http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/e/elizabeth_taylor.html#B7Yt3jQ1iqB2QOF2.99

A hagiography, perhaps, but much is forgiven this woman, who did her best in every venture she tried.

She broke through the glass ceiling, in the early sixties becoming the first actor, male or female, to be paid a million dollars. Think of it - a woman, the highest earner in any industry. Unheard of! Elizabeth was unquestionably a woman who knew her worth and demanded it.

Or as the actress herself remarked: "If someone's dumb enough to offer me a million dollars to make a picture, I'm certainly not dumb enough to turn it down."

http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/e/elizabeth_taylor.html#B7Yt3jQ1iqB2QOF2.99