What Does It Mean to Be "My Sistah's Keeper?

Having someone you can turn to in a crisis can be invaluable.The old adage, a friend in need is a friend indeed, sums up the essence of many friendships with other women. Friends eliminate isolation and loneliness. Having a friend is what keeps us sane, make us laugh and allow us to be who we need to be. We empower each other and appreciate each other when no one else will. Sharing ourselves with another woman contributes to our emotional well-being.

Shared experiences, interests, and values along with common marital status are often found in friendships between women. Women willing to make a deep commitment to their female friends usually have a willingness to share important feelings, thoughts, experiences and support with each other. Being present and listening deeply and compassionately to what our friends are sharing with us is invaluable. Not keeping score can make a big difference. In other words, trusting the knowledge that over an extended period of time, all favors will balance out whereas neither of you will end up doing way more for one that the other does for you, and knowing that it really doesn’t matter anyway.