Shining in Sisterhood

I rushed home from school and threw off my winter coat and snow covered boots. I grabbed a crisp apple and a freshly baked bun off the counter and snuggled on the couch with a book. What bliss! I was perfectly happy, sharing precious time with one of my best friends. Her name was Anne. She lived in a place called Green Gables and through her experiences I got a taste for true friendship and the fun of adventures with a friend who was a ‘kindred spirit’.

I had many best friends over the years. Some I met in books and a great many I met in ‘real life’. There were times I was lonely. I longed for a place to belong where I could be myself and have fun. Our family moved often and when I was the new girl in school, I wondered, ‘would I find a friend?’ With time I did meet new friends. I learned about reaching out to others and taking the first step in growing a friendship.

[pullquote width=”300″ float=”right”]I longed for a place to belong where I could be myself and have fun.[/pullquote]

A few years ago, I retired from my place of work. I missed my friends. They were busy with their work and even though I learned to enjoy my own company, I was often lonely. Who would be my friends now?

During this time, I became interested in Life Coaching. I enrolled in the Mentor Masterclass program. This is a coaching certification which includes an emphasis on being in ‘Sisterhood’. I had the experience of ‘coming home’. Here was an opportunity to connect with other women and I was ready.

What does this really mean? What is Sisterhood anyway? Did I find what I was longing for?

There are some nasty stories out there about women and how they treat each other. Jealousy, gossip, back stabbing, competition, putting others down, betraying trust and breaking promises are just a few of the examples I have heard.

Is it possible to have friendships with women and not experience the pain of jealousy and betrayal?

I am here to tell you, that Yes, it is possible!

In fact, my friendships with women have enriched me more than I ever imagined.

There are guidelines to follow in order to truly experience ‘Shining in Sisterhood’. Any relationship requires tender care and attention and this is also true in the area of women’s friendships.

I have a part in creating connection with other women.

1. It is important that I love myself first. Only then will I have the capacity to love others with an open heart. I am learning to treat myself as my own best friend, with compassion and acceptance.
2. Vulnerability is necessary for love and connection. As I am willing to be seen in the messiness of my life, others will be open to sharing their experiences.
3. Declaring what I want is necessary for clarity in friendship. Others can not read my mind and when I am able to ask for what I want, there is a freedom that leads to true connection.
4. Being willing to experiment and surrender to the outcome with a playful spirit encourages me to meet new people and move out of my comfort zone.
5. Seeking pleasure is important because when I am vibrant and happy others are drawn to me.
6. Being committed and loyal to my friends even when there may be upsets or misunderstandings is a way to nurture and maintain sisterhood.

I have discovered many benefits of Sisterhood

1. I become more of whom I really am because of how my friends see me. They bring out the best in me and I see myself as whole, complete and healthy.
2. I am encouraged to do things I may not try on my own. My sisterhood sees me as more capable than I see myself.
3. I have a safe place to process my experiences. As I describe what I am going through I hear their reflections and I find healing.
4. I am accepted where I am at. There is no fixing or advice giving…..unless I ask for it.
5. I am encouraged to celebrate without apology. My sisterhood celebrates with me. There is no jealousy. As I celebrate others are enriched.
6. I receive. I am learning that when I brush away a compliment or minimize an acknowledgment, I am taking away from the other. Mutual joy and connection results when I say, ‘Thank you’ and receive graciously.
7. I am more creative because of my sisterhood. We brainstorm together and the synergy that results is exciting and powerful.

[pullquote width=”300″ float=”right”]I am conscious of how rich I am.[/pullquote]

There are times I am surprised at the abundance of women friendships in my life. I love that  age is no barrier to sisterhood. I have women friends of all ages, backgrounds and occupations. I am conscious of how rich I am.

I believe that because I am part of such a diverse and vibrant sisterhood, I am modelling what is possible for other women. As you reflect on these ideas, I trust you will seek this type of friendship in your life. You will not regret it!

[disclaim]Share in the comments what friendship means to you. And, if you are curious to learn more, send me a message or book a complimentary session with me. I am eager to support you in experiencing the joys of true Sisterhood.[/disclaim]