In my post Two Truths and a Lie, I lied about being a tomboy. It’s true I don’t relate well to men, but I’ve actually struggled with cultivating meaningful friendships with anyone outside my family.

Then I met Anne Shirley and I knew instantly we were kindred spirits.

I was introduced to Anne through the 1985 PBS miniseries Anne of Green Gables. I instantly fell in love with her and life in Avonlea.

I was never as confident or adventurous as Anne. By nature, I’m shy and insecure. However, I completely related to her search for kindred spirits and deep desire for a bosom friend.

Early in the story, Anne discovers kindred spirits aren’t as scarce as you might think. I began to recognize others who are very much like me–we enjoy the same things, have the same sense of humor, enjoy each others company, and approach and handle life the same way.

Anne also finds a bosom friend in Diana Barry. Diana is awed by Anne’s courage and tenacity. She stands by Anne’s side when Anne is being crazy and unreasonable, and even when it gets her in trouble.

Bosom friends are definitely a lot harder to come by.

A bosom friend is so much more than a kindred spirit, she’s embedded in your heart. She’s invested in your deepest secrets, fears, joys, and sorrows. She accepts your priorities and readily forgives you when she can’t be one of them. She gives advice yet understands (and still respects you) if you don’t take it. She’s your cheerleader, conscience, and confidant. She knows you inside and out and loves you anyway.

I spent last week with my Diana Barry. Denise and I have spent the last 20 years sharing our ups and downs: in our marriages, with raising our kids, while working for the same company, and in even having the same job. She has seen me through some of my best and worst times and loved me through it all.

Denise is my ideal of a devoted wife, loving mother, and faithful friend. I continue to be in awe of her patience, perseverance, grace, and quiet confidence. I wish I was more like her.

I now have the pleasure of knowing many kindred spirits, but have been blessed with very few bosom friends. Thank you Denise for being one of them!