“Make new friends but keep the old, one is silver and the other’s gold!” If you were a Girl Scout, you likely remember this tune, a lyrical reminder to cherish both deep-rooted bonds and fresh connections. As preteens, we may have joyfully sang along with the girls in our troop without fully grasping its depth. But with years of experience behind us, its meaning resonates in ways we couldn’t have imagined back then. Over time we come to realize that friendships are about connection, resilience, and the quiet ways we lift each other up. And that the deepest connections can be made over time or out of shared circumstances.
The bond between women is undeniable–a powerful camaraderie that nurtures, supports, and often times, transforms. A sisterhood found in the strength of shared experiences or the shoulders we lean on, the quiet understanding expressed though a simple glance, the laughter, the tears, and the unwavering presence of those who show up when it matters most. Sometimes, this sisterhood is built over years and spans decades; other times it forms in an instant, sparked by a shared purpose or an unexpected moment of connection and changes our lives in ways we never saw coming. I’ve been fortunate to experience both—longtime friendships that have shaped me and a circle of women who came into my life when I least expected it. With both come the comfort of knowing that, no matter what, I am not alone. While they may not be my actual family, they are indeed my tribe.
Over time, these connections have taken many forms: A best friend–since we were 8 years old– side by side through every twist and turn, holding one another up through the most difficult losses and celebrating every triumph and milestone along the journey. It’s an unwavering bond that has transcended all others.
College pals who knew me before I knew myself and over the years have become confidantes. The growth, resilience, grace, and forgiveness that comes along with age and evolving only builds stronger bonds. We have fallen and risen, together. The friends whose shared experiences or locations brought us together and have woven us into a close-knit community. Sometimes what begins as friends for a reason, turn into friends for a lifetime And some pass through for a season just when we needed them most.
Once in a while, an unexpected tribe emerges— a group of kindred spirits that reshapes everything, proving that the most profound relationships often find us when we least expect them. Conversations quickly deepen, leading to moments of vulnerability and the exchange of stories and life lessons that leave a lasting impact and the understanding that the universe has a plan. If you know, you know.
Brought together by a shared desire to become involved in new opportunites and to give back in our community, a group of women met for the first time. At what was meant to be a casual meet and greet with volunteers, something extraordinary unfolded. There was laughter, and some tears, as everyone ended up sharing the realities of their lives. The overlap was profound. Before our eyes, a bond began to form among the group members—a connection based on genuine, human interaction, more personal than any of us could have anticipated.
At its core, this circle of eight women is a tapestry of connection: two best friends from childhood, several who met previously via mutual friends or their kids, and others drawn close by a shared desire to volunteer or to simply be there to support their friend. Ultimately, they were each seeking the same thing we all crave—authentic connection. What we all discovered was a kinship, an acceptance, a soft place to land when life feels overwhelming. Over time, our planning meetings became events of their own, like a family coming together effortlessly, transforming any space into a vibrant spread of food, drinks, and laughter—our love language. Every dish, every toast, and every smile celebrates the deep connection that binds us together. Whether you bump into us in town or hear our laughter and music out on the lake, one thing is undeniable—you’ll feel the true sisterhood, steadfast support, and unwavering acceptance. Amid genuine joy and sometimes tearful moments, this eclectic tribe, spanning nearly 20 years in age and a spectrum of interests, abilities, and quirks, embodies what true support and showing up looks like.
Rooting for each other–and our local shops.
The bond inspires us all and reminds us of the transformative power of connection.
While our circle of women is tightly bonded, it thrives on openness. By embracing vulnerability, humor, and welcoming new friendships, we allow and encourage our bond to grow. The circle has naturally expanded to include others–from women younger in age but wise beyond their years to college friends who seamlessly blend into the fold–also craving the connection and acceptance we represent. The essence of our connection is rooted in authenticity and mutual support, proving that the best relationships flourish when based on these values. As we continuously embrace this, our circle continues to widen, our journey and shared stories become richer, drawing more people in. For me, bringing together friends–sisters–from all facets of my life warms my heart and feeds my soul. All of us—new friends and old—contribute to the beautiful story we’re building together.
In a world that can sometimes feel isolating, the strength of a tribe proves that true belonging is the foundation of a resilient, joyful community. Family isn’t just what we are born into; it’s the bonds we create along the way, where friends become sisters and their authentic support becomes a lifeline–a steady current of love and shared wisdom that lifts us up and empowers us to flourish.“Make new friends but keep the old. One is silver and the other’s gold.” And both are precious.
Photo by: Sharmila T
Over time we come to realize that friendships are about connection, resilience, and the quiet ways we lift each other up.