sisterhood

okay, so i guess it's been a little bit depressing around here lately and i do apologize. it's not like me to be so down in the dumps for such a long time; but things have been far from normal. i'm starting to see the positive again and to emerge with a newfound sense of self.

i have to attribute part of this regenerative outlook to my sisters. i am so blessed to have an amazing group of friends who support and love me unconditionally. we inspire each other, we carry each other through tough times, we help each other come to realizations about ourselves and our lives. there is something about the bond that females are capable of forming together that is so powerful. this bond exists in person, over the phone, and through the internet. i never would have thought that i could make long-lasting and important friendships through writing over the internet. i wouldn't trade my sisterhood for anything in the world. the wisdom and support and humor and perspective i've gained from them is astounding.

i just finished reading The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd. I would totally recommend it. Here's an excerpt from an interview with the author which is posted at the back of the book:

"When women bond together in a community in such a way that "sisterhood" is created, it gives them an accepting and intimate forum to tell their stories and have them heard and validated by others. The community not only helps to heal their circumstance, but encourages them to grow into their larger destiny....In every case [of sisterhood] we found that there is a way of being together that sustains us and now and then, if we are lucky, returns us to ourselves."

sisters, you have returned me to myself. thank you.