Mar 23, 2011
Elizabeth Taylor spiritual legacy: 'Give of yourself'
Ring all the bells for Elizabeth Taylor. Don the torn black ribbon of a Jewish mourner, too.
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By AFP/Getty Images
The screen legend who died today moved among many faiths and spoke often of a sustaining spiritual life.
Born Christian Scientist, convert to Judaism, wed to men of various faiths in various churches, Taylor was spiritual in the most contemporary Hollywood way -- open to all and grateful to God.
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At Adherents, they've tracked her various comments on her religious views and her weddings in various churches, chapels and city halls. But the quote that caught my eye came from Ellis Auburn's 2000 book, The Most Beautiful Woman in the World: The Obsessions, Passions, and Courage of Elizabeth Taylor:
"I believe in a higher power," Elizabeth said. "I believe in one God. I'm so glad I asked for help." Her willingness to seek help from a power greater than herself would impact the rest of her life, changing her into the kind of person who'd help save others from drugs and alcohol and raise millions of dollars for people suffering from AIDS. AA's big message is that one should give rather than take, understand rather than be understood, and love rather than be loved. Liberating one from unrealistic expectations, the program also liberates one from disappointment. "Finally, give of yourself."
That may be the way to remember her spiritually: "Finally, give of yourself." She brought her spirituality to life in her generosity to others.
THINK ABOUT IT: What do you think is Elizabeth Taylor's spiritual legacy? What would yours be?
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