The word “sister” is generally understood to be a female relative descending from shared parents. However, the suggestion of the word sister is a familiar relationship between people that is often not based on being related. Women that share a particular culture, language, behavior, geography, lifestyles, or experiences are referred to as sisters, especially when they unite for one of those reasons. For example, a female military expert might consider all other female soldiers to be her sisters in arms, or women experiencing pregnancy may feel the sisterly bond with others in that situation. Whether the sisters you played with while growing up were literally that or really close playmates, the bond formed between people of approximately the same age within a larger family, neighborhood, or kin structure is irreplaceable. In spite of the potential rivalry, maintaining a connection with your sisters throughout adulthood is vital to the survival of the family dynamic.

In keeping with the spirit of Sisters' Day, the inclusion of step- and adopted sisters in the celebration is vital to keeping the changing face of the modern family up to date. Parents of siblings should use this holiday to encourage interaction, communication, and the basis for a supportive relationship between them from an early age. If you and your sisters are separated by time, distance, and lifestyle, this is your chance to renew your connection with them. Reach out across the country, or around the world, and bring your sisterly network to life again through phone calls, scheduling reunions that are independent of times that your family or sisterhood already gets together, or establishing an electronic link. Keep updated on your respective lives, because you never know what you might find out about each other, or yourself! In the event of no sister(s) with whom to share this meaningful occasion, seek out a group of women with whom you may foster a sisterly bond based on various aspects of your culture, personality, and much more. Sisterhood is about more than being sisters, namely, it is about being women and being there for each other!

Of all human bonds, “sisterhood” is the tie between women that proves most enduring and nourishing. Whether by kinship or choice, the “sisters” in your life are priceless. These are thoughtful, touching, heart-warming stories that honor the “sisterhood” bond. When our lives are overwhelming, we can always count on the assistance of other women. She is your mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, best friend or sister. She hugs you when you need it. She helps you laugh at the silly mistakes. She lifts your spirits on trying days. You are blessed with her friendship and support. She is the woman (or women) who encouraged and consoled you at life’s pivotal points.