Even just thinking about putting these words to paper makes my eyes well up. TRIBE. By definition this word means “A social division of traditional society consisting of families or communities linked by social, economic, religious, or blood ties.” In my world, my tribe consists of a group of women who make it possible for me to survive. Survive. That’s a really strong word. And that’s because these are women who mean that much to me.
I have had so many wonderful friends throughout my life. It’s funny how relationships change over time, and how different friends have come into my life at so many different times. Each of these relationships has made me truly me, and for each I am equally grateful. So many of these are women whom with I have found a deep and soulful connection, and whose friendship I have discovered, cherished, and nourished over time. Each has now become such an important member of my Tribe.
Some of these are the women that stood by me while on my own for the very first time, so very far from home. We shared our wildest dreams, and challenged each other when we saw anything that amounted to less. We watched each other take baby steps out into this great big world, saluting each other’s successes, and never, ever, second-guessing anyone’s mistakes. We were each others’ family when our families were so very far away, and have now seen each other bear so much fruit in so many destinations around the country. Not a day goes by that I don’t wish they were living next door, but I am consistently filled with so much gratitude for the days in which they were next door. We never, ever, forget those roots, and the God-filled place that brought us all together.
Some of these women came into my life as I became a mother. Why wasn’t my baby nursing? Why weren’t they sleeping? When would they walk? Why weren’t they talking? Jumping into this new phase of life, where suddenly little souls were depending on me for every basic need, I felt camaraderie and sisterhood with those who were experiencing this same, uncharted territory alongside me. Our daily walks and talks helped me not only clear the fog in my head, but also helped me navigate the journey. So much perspective was gained from these wonderful women, and really when I needed it so badly. They were the clarity and they knew my babies almost as intimately as I did.
Some of these women are with me now, as I navigate the elementary school years. These are the women that stand by me day in and day out in this crazy journey of being a wife and mother that I am proud of. I have shared my worries, my challenges, and my most embarrassing moments, and they have been there for me with cups of coffee, rides for my children, and stories of the exact same frustrations and challenges that I am experiencing. We are never, ever, alone, and this is a gift. They talk to me about the “real stuff,” they care for my kids when I am not there, and they bring me Tylenol for my sick child when we are home-bound. We sit on the sidelines of our children’s sporting endeavors and chat in between plays. We whisper in between songs at the Christmas concert. And we text message each other night and day with questions, worries, and support with the homework packet. And this is EVERYTHING.
Every single day, I am grateful for friendship. For the opportunity to be myself, and to know that some really amazing women are surrounding me and holding me up on my journey. This journey is crazy and unpredictable, ever-changing and evolving, and these relationships all continue to keep me accountable and help me to be a better wife, mother, daughter, and sister. I am forever grateful for my beautiful Tribe, and for the gift they are in my life.
