Why being a Judith Anderson fan is life-enhancingThis week finds me contemplating the myriad ways in

Why being a Judith Anderson fan is life-enhancing

This week finds me contemplating the myriad ways in which being an admirer of Dame Judith Anderson (pictured looking elegant in 1966) enriches my life. Her work introduces me to or encourages me to revisit landmark plays and films (most notably MedeaandHitchcock’s Rebecca). Her performances inspire my creative writing (just ask @thisismrsdanvers how long I’ve been working on a Mrs Danvers-themed short story!). Her determination and incredible work ethic are incredibly motivating when I find myself procrastinating (’Work hard, and if it is to be, it will come,’ she once remarked sagely.) I’ve rediscovered the beauty of Daphne du Maurier’s prose, thanks to Judith, and discovered Robinson Jeffers’ astonishing poems (her readings of them are *sublime*).

On a more personal note, I’ve learned to accept myself more since becoming a fan. I avoid talking about Judith’s personal life on this blog out of respect, but what I will say is that I now feel more comfortable in my own skin, thanks to her influence. She’s taught me to be more resilient and to care less about what other people think about me (after all, she made a tremendously successful career for herself despite not conforming to the glitzy Hollywood stereotype). I know that you can be beautiful without looking like a Barbie doll. I know that being unmarried and not having children doesn’t make anyone a failure. I know that a woman can achieve truly amazing things when she puts her mind to it. And when all else fails, I know I can cheer myself up by looking at this photo;-)

Most of all, I’m grateful to Judith for bringing wonderful, life-enhancing friendships into my world (with @thisismrsdanvers,@satedanfire,@ralphsmotorbike and others). We can’t get to know the great lady herself, but those friends and I share a sincere appreciation of her acting talents and strength of character. 

Well, I’ve written far more than I’d intended. Bonus points if you’ve got to the end of this! How does being a fan of Judith enrich your life? I’d love to know.