SISTERHOOD

After watching the mind-blowing movie Black Panther, I had an epiphany: black women collaborating is like a well-choreographed dance, while competing is more like a catfight at a hair salon. Seriously, the power of women is phenomenal, and the beauty of black women? It's like a double scoop of ice cream on a hot day—absolutely delightful! We get a whole month to flaunt our achievements, but honestly, one month feels like a Snapchat story in a lifetime of accomplishments. We rally behind our men like cheerleaders on steroids, yet somehow, we often end up competing against our own sisters. This isn't just a black women's issue; it's a universal women's dilemma. Why can't we all just get along? It's like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded! Sure, we blame it on hormones or mood swings, but is it really? Is jealousy coded in our DNA? Are we genetically programmed to undercut each other's potential? Let's ponder that for a moment, shall we?

I pride myself on being a supportive woman, always ready to cheer on my sisters from other misters. But not everyone shares my enthusiasm. Picture this: I applied for a job that could catapult my career and my bank account! Years of being an educator finally seemed to pay off. I was ready to pack my bags and move for this golden opportunity. A young lady who actually liked me suggested I apply, convinced I was the perfect fit. I was hesitant at first, but then I realized I was more qualified than a contestant on a reality show, so I applied months ago. She told me they got my application and would be calling for an interview soon. My pessimism turned into optimism faster than a kid on Christmas morning! But then, the plot thickened. The young lady called me last night, asking if I knew someone I’ll call "Debbie Downer." Spoiler alert: I did, and I thought we were on good terms. But then, surprise, surprise! Debbie had told the hiring manager I didn’t have “the look” for the job. I mean, what does that even mean? Was I supposed to show up in a ball gown?

To make matters worse, the young lady was baffled by Debbie's comment, especially since she knew me and my fabulous hair. She suggested I confront Debbie directly, as her comment might have cost me the interview. The young lady felt Debbie's behavior was as appropriate as wearing white after Labor Day. I was flabbergasted! I had supported Debbie beyond work, helping her with fundraisers and business plans. How could she throw shade on me like that? I felt like a contestant on a reality show, betrayed by my own alliance! I couldn't sleep, thinking, "I thought we were in this together, supporting each other!" I mean, come on, Debbie! Can we not sabotage each other like we're in some twisted game of Survivor? Doesn’t she realize the strength we have when we uplift one another? I swear, men must think we’re all auditioning for the role of ‘Mean Girls’!

Sisterhood is crucial! I’m not suggesting we invite every woman into our inner circle—after all, some people are like that one sock that always goes missing in the dryer. But we must respect one another. Lifting each other up helps us connect with younger women who see us as role models. When a sister is down, it’s our duty to lift her up—even if our brothers are too busy playing video games. Why do we disconnect so often? Many claim to value sisterhood, but do you actually practice it?

Ask yourself honestly:

• Do you feel joy in bringing other sisters along to success, or do you exclude them, fearing they might steal your spotlight?

• Are you genuinely kind to other women? Do you give sincere compliments, or do you belittle them to boost your own ego?

• Have you engaged in positive gossip about women, or do you spread negativity like it’s the latest trend?

• Do you feel jealous of another woman's success, or do you throw a mini celebration for her?

• Do you treat women the way you wish to be treated, or do you think "mean girl" vibes are still in?

• Have you supported and encouraged new colleagues, or do you secretly enjoy watching them struggle?

• Have you mentored a young woman, or do you treat her like a contestant on a survival show?

• Do you address issues directly with women, or do you prefer to gossip about them like it's a new Netflix series?

• Are you ethical or hypocritical? Are you a hidden "mean girl," or do you truly value being "my sister's keeper"?

• Lastly, do you possess empathy or ignorance? The choice is yours!

  
  

We should never be unkind to another woman. As sisters, we need to handle our differences like adults—peacefully and respectfully. If you throw shade at another woman, karma will bring it right back to you, like a boomerang! We don’t have to be best friends, but we should at least respect and uplift each other. If I succeed, we all should succeed. If you lack sisterhood in your heart, it’s time to reconsider and embrace it! Sisterhood should extend beyond cliques to our entire community. We’re strongest when we’re united, not divided.

Take a page from this insightful writer, my sister... Let it resonate.

"THE SISTERHOOD" by Bindu

"To me, being a woman means being part of a beautiful sisterhood. I can smile at a woman I don't know, and she'll smile back, acknowledging respect for the sisterhood. That smile recognizes your beauty and worth, my sister! The sisterhood is a vibrant community sharing knowledge to guide us on our paths. Women are connected to everything. We are one! Like it or not, I am you, and you are me. Your experiences could be mine and vice versa. We must uplift and empower each other, reminding ourselves we're never alone. This world teaches us to compete, believing we're better, prettier, smarter, stronger, and more loved than others. I reject that! Despite appearances, we can thrive on Fem-Power!

Feminine power is a strong force guided by love, nurturing, strength, and courage. Fem-Power teaches us to dismantle negative teachings. Your joy is my joy! If you succeed, I support and cheer for you! If you cry, I cry with you. If you hurt, I hurt with you. Whatever women face, we must rally around each other with love, support, and compassion. We must protect the sisterhood by empathizing with each other's experiences. This sends a message of sincere love and protection: I am here for you, my sister. We must celebrate our uniqueness and courage as women. This is the purpose of the sisterhood."