Recently, I was reminded of the power of sisterhood: the solidarity of women based on shared conditions, experiences, or concerns. My own experience of this type of friendship, unity, sorority, or bond has seen many iterations over time. Each rooted in the qualities of honesty, loyalty and trustworthiness. I won’t soon forget why each of these experiences has been important to me; both in times of need and in times of celebration.
Even from afar, I can recall numerous occasions where a simple act has transpired and come to solidify the bond between one female friend or another. Experiences range from effortless one-time initiatives to endeavours that focus on longevity or sustainability.
Whether in mainstream media, strong feelings towards a particular initiative bring women together – encourage and empower them to get involved in actions to improve women’s rights. In religion we witness women who have taken public vows dedicated to apostolic works. In movies, we are reminded how strong the power and importance of a female relationship is. And in real life – where a bond is formed with school friends, work colleagues, teammates, book club members, siblings, mothers, daughters, and any other female that happens to cross our path and make an impact on our head and heart.
Having a sense of belonging is so important to all women and girls. True sisterhood helps us share the light and dark parts of a journey and allows us to see the best of who we are in the eyes of another. Some have even commented that sisterhood is the bond that gives them the backbone to go through some of the hardest times of their life.
There is an emotional connection that occurs with sisterhood. That shoulder to cry on or someone to laugh your heart out with. The validation of your actions or emotions, and for just being yourself. The ability to unleash the power within and empower others to feel and do the same. The non-judgemental understanding and empathy one feels in a trusted sisterhood, inviting them to be vulnerable. A characteristic that needs reiterating: Being vulnerable is not a sign of weakness.
Although sisterhood is an affirmation of an emotional, productive, enlightening, and empowering relationship where together women feel safe to be themselves, sisterhood is also about empowering each other to reach common goals and personal aspirations. Yet is sisterhood still an untapped resource? A kinship so strong it threatens the status quo of personal and professional relationships?
Women across the globe continue to celebrate the bonding of all women as soul sisters in supporting, nurturing and protecting one another. There is divine energy, a creative force, and an effervescence of collective endeavours and leadership, adding diversity and an inclusive voice. Sisterhoods bring women together across boundaries and inspire others to a shared vision, and empower others to use their talents, resources, and spirit for the support of many.
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Jacqueline is blessed to have many women in her life and to be a part of their sisterhoods. If you haven’t connected with her on social media yet, Jacqueline’s sisterhood fuels her joie de vivre, especially her passion to empower others, being a positive influence and motivator, and being a bit of a risk-taker. https://www.linkedin.com/in/s0ngbird/
Photo by Nina Liz Photography
