Not For Sissies

Sis’, Sissy, Sister. Regardless of how you address your female sibling(s), you are speaking with a significant influencer in your life.

Last week, you learned I had two older brothers. Now, in the essence of fair play, I’m back to let you know I also have three older sisters, each significantly responsible for shaping me into the fairly considerate man I am today.

Sisterhood is not for the faint of heart, as today’s title suggests. These women have endured trials and tribulations most of us men would not survive. There are the multiple physical challenges thrust upon them from puberty, to childbearing, through menopause and beyond. Then there’s the extreme effort required in making their mark in a largely patriarchal world. Piled on top of all that are the many societal pressures bombarding them every day, through advertising, TV, and any number of social media outlets. Trust me, if I had to go through half of what they do every day, I’d be curled up in a ball in the corner!

While it wasn’t always easy to listen to some of the lessons my sisters tried to teach me during my formative years, I did absorb their words, which had an incredible effect on how I have viewed and treated women throughout my life. They continue to challenge me to do more, to think harder, and to see things from a different perspective. Heck, they’ve even made me a better writer (Or should that be: they’ve even made me write better? Dammit, I don’t know!).

So, as a Brother, I salute not only my sisters by blood, but indeed the entire Sisterhood. Your contributions to our world are immeasurable and essential. You have taught us, fought us, nurtured us, enlightened us. Our universe would not be nearly as bright or as balanced without you in it. Individually, you possess an amazing inner strength. Together, you are unstoppable!

In summary: You Rock!  😊

Thanks for joining me today, friends. Whether you have a sister of your own or know someone who is one, go ahead and give them a fist bump, high-five, hug, or other respectful sign to let them know they kick butt.

Just don’t ever call them a sissy.

Trust me.

Oh, and whatever you are, like our many Sisters, be a good one.

-Dave