A few years ago, I created a sisterhood pledge to inspire other women to begin cultivating more meaningful bonds with their sister friends. I see the long-lasting benefits that these friendships have had in my life, and I want every woman I know and meet to do the same.

“I got you.”

“I’m praying for you.”

“I see you.”

“I hear you.”

“You got this.”

“You are loved.”

“I sent you flowers.”

These are just a few examples of the messages I have been blessed to receive from some of my sister friends in recent days. You see, I don’t have just “regular” friends. I have sister friends. Over the course of my life, I have been incredibly blessed to meet some of the most kind, supportive, God-fearing, and loving women. I have identified these souls as precious gifts from God and have been intentional about cultivating deep and meaningful relationships with each of them. I treat each relationship as if it is a beautiful garden that requires sunlight, water, pruning, time, and dedication. In my line of work, I give so much of myself, and it is crucial that I surround myself with people who can pour into me and restore the virtue that I pour into others daily. I am so grateful that I have crossed paths with women who do just that; I call these women my sister friends.

I prioritize pouring into my sister friends because of the way they lovingly pour into me. We travel together. We laugh and cry together. We share with one another. We support each other’s business endeavors. We radiate and reciprocate love and positivity which fosters a mutually beneficial exchange that nourishes us all. God knew what he was doing when he sent each woman who is part of my sister circle. I think of my dear sister friend, Kim, whose infectious laughter feels like pure joy; it also reminds me to laugh when I feel like crying. Being around her brings pure joy.

I am so thankful for my first and lifelong best friend, my sister, Denise, who is always a listening ear when I need it the most. Her loving and non-judgmental support has carried me through some of my darkest days.

I am so blessed that my blood sister is truly a friend to me. I am reminded of my sister friend, Roni, who has overcome great adversity and is such a kind and loving soul. She never fails to show up for me with a prayer, a hug, or a kind word.

I could name countless women who have shown up and supported me. Each one represents a beautiful flower in the friendship garden of my life. My sister friends remind me of my worth when the ups and downs of life cause me to momentarily forget. They fix my crown privately and lovingly when it needs adjusting. They speak life into me when I need it most; both when in my presence and when they are not. They are quick to defend me when others attempt to harm or defame me. My sister friends uplift and pray for me and send me scriptures to remind me of God’s promises for my life. I know that I can always count on them for much needed support, affirmation, and love.

Sis, your circle matters. Who are the people that you call friend or sister friend? Can you count on them to be there for you through thick and thin? I encourage you to take the sisterhood pledge by reading these words out loud and then sharing them with your circle.

I will pray for you and not prey on you.

I will not be the cause of your tears.

I will not interfere in your marriage.

I will not assassinate your character.

I will not be the straw that breaks your back.

I will confront you in love rather than destroy you behind your back.

I will forgive you quickly and, in some instances, love you from a distance to protect my peace.

I will support your business.

I will pay you for your services and stop trying to barter on every transaction.

I will love you through your pain.

I will not steal your ideas and make them my own.

I will keep your secrets and not share them disguised as a prayer request.

I will treat you fairly in all business dealings.

I will pay my invoices to you on time.

I will not expect the “hook up” for your services.