I love being a woman. I relish all things about being female. And one of the things that I feel privileged to be a part of, is the sisterhood.
While, of course, men have close friends, I think it's safe to say that for the most part, their bonds lie in the more superficial realm of sport, business, and other general nonsense. They tend to run a mile from one another should the conversation stray into deeper and more emotional territory.
I'm generalising, of course, but I have yet to meet an exception to this rule amongst my own friends, family and colleagues. When men do open up, it tends to be to a woman, be it wife, mother, partner or good friend. Because we, by nature, are born communicators, and in general have high levels of emotional intelligence.
Let me be clear, I love men. I have a wonderful father and brothers, I have some great male friends and over the years have had one or two very special partners in my life. But when push comes to shove, it's my girlfriends that make my soul shine.
I went to an all girls school and when I look back on that time, my overwhelming memories are of laughing, secrets, hours on the phone, gossip and general silliness (decorating our 2nd year classroom with rubbish and toilet paper one year was a highlight). Obviously there were the painful moments too, ones that every child and teenager must endure; not being invited to a party; someone who no longer wants to be your friend; unrequited love etc. But overall it was a really happy time.
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My strongest female bonds started to grow back then. I realised, that when the chips were down, apart from my family, it was my girlfriends that I turned to, and honestly, not much has changed. Most of them I don't get to see that often, but when we do meet up, it's like no time at all has passed, and I'm right back there.
Currently, as I wind my way through the messy maze of the breakup of a long-term relationship, it's my girlfriends that are right there by my side. Checking in with me just because, holding me when I cry, making me laugh out loud at how ridiculous it all is, helping me forget, helping me to grow stronger and to move on. Truly, they have been wonderful, and it's given me a whole new appreciation of the sisterhood.
When we become part of a twosome, it's easy and common for us to block out the rest of the world. And that's ok. That person is our new best friend, it's right that we share everything with them. But, unfortunately, sometimes our partners leave us. Be it because the relationship doesn't work out, or even because a tragedy comes to our door. When that happens, it's your girlfriends who will gather their forces and surround you with their strength and love.
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So, for the month that's in it, why not contact an old friend? Just say hello and see how they are doing, and if possible try and meet up with them. I know that it may seem a hassle, and I know that you're really busy, so are they. But I promise that you won't regret it.
Take care of each other, Beauties, and do stay tuned as later this month we have some fun things planned to celebrate friendship. Possibly even something movie related, hence my choice of imagery...
