OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.
Celine Dion, one of the most iconic voices in the music industry, has faced her fair share of trials, triumphs, and life-changing moments throughout her remarkable career. While her immense talent and dedication to her craft have undoubtedly played a role in her success, there are key moments and pieces of advice that have shaped her destiny in profound ways. Among these is a piece of advice from a priest that would ultimately ensure her very existence.
Celine’s mother, Thérèse Tanguay Dion, played a central role in fostering Celine’s early love of music. When Celine was just a child, Thérèse wrote her first song—a gesture that would ignite the spark for Celine’s lifelong musical journey. The song’s impact would go on to resonate deeply with Celine, who later reflected, “I owe her everything.” It was the kind of motherly encouragement that every artist dreams of, and it helped propel Celine to stardom.
However, it was another moment in her early life, one involving a priest, that would have an even more dramatic effect on her future. When Thérèse discovered she was pregnant with Celine, she found herself considering an abortion. At the time, Thérèse was already a mother to many children, and the decision weighed heavily on her heart. But it was a priest who gave her the advice that would forever alter the course of her life—and Celine’s. He advised Thérèse to keep the pregnancy, assuring her that there was a special purpose for the child she was carrying.
This profound counsel, which Celine herself later acknowledged, would result in her birth and the beginning of a musical journey that would captivate millions worldwide. In fact, Celine often says, “I owe my life to that priest.” If not for his words, the world may have never known the voice of one of the most celebrated singers of all time.
Beyond the pivotal moments in her early life, Celine Dion has always held on to important values that have shaped both her career and her personal life. One of the most powerful pieces of advice she has given herself and others is to “stay true to yourself.” Celine has advised countless fans and aspiring artists, “Don’t hold on to your dreams. Hold on to yourself. You can have many dreams.” This message resonates deeply with Celine’s journey—reminding us all that authenticity and self-belief are just as important as any external goal we might pursue.
Looking back on Celine Dion’s life, it’s clear that advice—whether from a mother, a priest, or herself—has been a key driver of her success. These words of wisdom have not only guided her but have shaped her destiny in ways that few could have predicted. From a song written by her mother to a priest’s counsel that allowed her to be born, Celine’s story is a testament to the power of meaningful guidance, the importance of staying true to oneself, and the extraordinary impact that a single moment can have on the trajectory of a life.