Dear Jo, Anne, and Little Tree,
Even though you are three very different characters, there are qualities you share. You are unabashedly imaginative and yet also in tune. You are brash and bold and also kind and caring. You dream and look to the stars. You talk to trees and bugs. You play and pontificate. You explore adventurously and draw comfort from home. You love love.
I sense joy when I think of you. You remind me of childhood characters I loved on television: Punky Brewster, Clarissa, Blossom. There’s something about dreamy, spunky, expressive, strong girls that inspires me.
Frequently, I come back to you. I read about you or watch a depiction of you in film. Your story is warm and inviting. I imagine what it would be like to live at Green Gables, Orchard House, or in Grandma and Grandpa’s house in the Appalachian Mountains. Your friendships are deep and abiding. I daydream of having a bosom friend like Diana, a best friend like Laurie, or a kindred spirit like Willow John. You take notice of injustices around you and you choose to take action. You gather your resources to share and you go out of your way to help others.
Thank you for what you have taught me. Thank you for letting me come back time after time, for welcoming me in your home.
