the healing power of sisterhood

The concept of sisterhood encompasses such a wide range of interactions, events, and emotions but is often depicted as either very Mean Girls or Sisterhood of The Traveling Pants. Although I feel like both are fairly accurate representations of the relationship women have with one another, neither properly explores the complexities of such a dynamic.

Devon shot by Richard Rembert

Your first real understanding of interpersonal relationships is from the observations you make of your family. My sister and I would often catch our mother and aunts admitting that they felt like they didn’t understand one another— and it happens. Just because you are born into the same family, it doesn’t mean you two will automatically relate, get along, or even like one another. But, this concept was one that was difficult for the both of us digest to us.

Madison shot by Richard Rembert

Before Madison was old enough to understand— before we were actually friends— I made a vow with her that no matter what, we would stick together and work on understanding one another. That even if we were different, we would function with enough respect and compassion to support one another. At the time, I was just saying words. They didn’t sound at all like what I wrote prior, but they meant the same. I was a child so I didn’t completely grasp the concept of sisterhood. Now, I’m so glad that we both made this decision, especially at a period so juvenile.

shot by Richard Rembert

Sisterhood goes beyond blood relation, we just got lucky to be compatible souls. I have friends that I consider sisters as well. We have experienced together. We have healed together. We have lost together. And still, we argue, bicker, and make up. We challenge one another to be better people, to love harder, to work harder and be the best versions of ourselves.

When people highlight the “catty” nature of women, I write it off as human nature. People, in general, will do what they feel and sometimes when your spirit has not evolved, you can’t navigate people or situations properly. But that is the whole point of sisterhood. This is where that spirit is fostered.

Madison and I can be our honest selves because we’ve accepted each other for who we are. We are non-judgmental, patient, and understanding of one another and the variances in our experiences. We only want the best for each other and push each other to greater heights. Friendship is the most honest form of love, but sisterhood has healed me.

Photography + Creative Direction: Richard Rembert
MUA + Creative Direction: Devon Jennings
Production Assistant: Ayanna McNeil
Makeup Assistant: Madison Jennings