Anne Shirley: A Quintessential Character for Me

I recently re-watched the iconic Anne of Green Gables movie and re-read the Anne series (one of my all-time favorite books) by Lucy Maud Montgomery about the adventures of a red-headed orphan adopted by elderly siblings on Prince Edward Island. From my childhood to today, I always saw Anne Shirley as an inspiration and role model. Even though she physically did not look like me at all with the exception of being a Canadian girl and having the same initials, that did not matter to me back then when I was a child. I connected with her at a much deeper level, based on her character and her energy, which I now realize is much better. She taught me various memorable lessons that are similar to the teachings of life that society is now emphasizing: 

• Anne was full of life and wonder. No matter how dire her current situation was, she transformed it into a fascinating one due to her unique sense of imagination and adventure. She cherished each day and made the most of it. Because of her, I learned to let my mind wander and look at the bright side. This approach always surprises me with new creative ideas or simply make a situation better! 
• Anne believed in the concept of kindred spirits because everyone is worth knowing if you accept them the way they are. She also cared for them dearly and remained appreciative of the simple joys that these relationships bring into her life. Even with people who she disliked, she used her imagination to understand their perspectives because she knew that they were teaching her significant lessons about life. This attitude is a constant reminder for me to acknowledge that there are reasons for people to be a part of my journey and not to take them for granted.
• Anne apologized for her mistakes and forgave people. Due to her temper, she had sometimes hurt others through her actions and words. For example, she once stood up for herself by hitting Gilbert with her slate for calling her carrot and tugging her hair. She quickly apologized for her misconduct and also forgave him for his wrongdoing. Even though she was not perfect, she tried to become a better individual by taking the initiative to apologize when she did something wrong. In my own journey, I am aware that I have made mistakes that I am genuinely sorry about and hope that they have changed me into a better person today. 
• Anne embraced her authenticity. Anne was different from others in many ways, such as her deep love for nature and literature. She never hid her unique passions from others, even if they laughed at her. Even though she did not like certain aspects of herself such as her red hair,  she eventually realized that this was who she was and learned to treasure herself. In the era of mass media, I used to compare myself with others to seek external validation and fit in with them. However, once I learned to value my authentic character, my journey has profoundly altered for the better!
• Anne cultivated a loving connection with nature. She marvelled at its true beauty. She spoke to nature as though she was a best friend with it and she gave it special names to them like the Lake of Shining Waters. Even though I currently live in an urban jungle, I appreciate the gifts that nature provides for me and foster a strong long-lasting relationship with my surroundings.

The author of the Anne series has created a charming character that I can relate to as I navigate my own challenging journey in today's times. Anne Shirley is the quintessential individual that will be eternal in my heart!

#anneofgreengables #lucymaudmontgomery #anjusharma #wisdom