Finding Friendship: My Sister's Keeper

I never had a sister - not a biological one, at least.

I grew up with two older brothers and that was, what's the word I'm looking for? Oh, yeah! Annoying. While both of my brothers were talented in many areas, they were most skilled in the art of getting on my nerves and being partners in crime.

So, where did that leave me? I wanted a partner in crime, too! A girl - a sister! Someone to laugh with, get in trouble with for staying up too late, and someone I could share things with. You know: secrets, crushes, and clothes.

I had to get creative. I couldn't just pressure my parents into giving me another sibling and there was no way I could guarantee the kid would be a girl. So, I found a way to create sisterhood in my own life. It would take time, dedication, proper execution, and strength of character. The task couldn't be left up to just anyone - this was important!

For reference, Google defines sisterhood as "an association, society, or community of women linked by a common interest, religion, or trade."

Naturally, establishing these kind of relationships takes time, vulnerability, open-mindedness, consistency, and authenticity. In order to receive the type of support I wanted from other girls, I would have to give of myself the same way. I decided the best way for me to form a sisterhood circle would be to start taking my relationships with other girls more seriously. I had to step out of my comfort zone and connect with other girls based on our similarities and our differences.

With that, I dove into various social, athletic, and academic activities within the community. I joined drama club, chorus, jump rope team, and even found a diverse group of girls to sit with each day in my school cafeteria. We sat at table "D6" and fittingly named ourselves, The D6 Clique.

We were a multiracial, multi-ethnic, and interfaith group of girls. Finally, I'd thought to myself. I have sisters of my own!

We went on to have slumber parties, spend weekends at the mall, exchange posters of our favorite singers, and paint each other's nails. We'd fight, and, then, we'd always make up. We were sisters in a unique way -- we didn't share the same parents but we were, in fact, family. We laughed together, we cried together, and we grew up together.

Most importantly, I don't just have one partner in crime -- I have many!

Now, where does that leave you? Whether it's making one friend or two, you can build sisterhood circles in just the same way. Remember, these things take time and some girls may be more shy than others. The important thing is to get involved right now and just go with it. Whatever the case, there are organizations such as Girls on the Run International that promote health, fitness, and sisterly bonds.

You, too, are your sister's keeper!