Making A People Connection

Recently I held a long distance conversation with my sister, who 's just shy of three years younger than I. Still, she somehow got the impression that since I'm the elder sister, then, I must have the answers to her present dilemma.

Let me reassure you, my sister is one headstrong, decisive, determined and smart woman who have weathered many a storm in her transitional journey. She has been a beacon of light when darkness have fallen upon our huge family. My sister is 'tough.'

Because I belive this so much, it bemuses me to note that she is at a loss when it comes to forming new relationships/friendships. You can literally count the number of friends, and, or, acquaintances that she has on , say, one finger.

I don't say this in a condescending way, knowing how we were raised and I'm, therefore, quite privvy to my sister's 'ways.' My sister, siblings and I grew up on large, spacious wide open flatlands in areas of The Mississippi Delta. Except for a few scattered farmlands, we lived mostly secluded away from the hustle and bustle, outside of the city limits...so we learned early on the special bond of sisterhood, trust and confidentiality.

When I moved away, my sister and I still held a deep affection for one another across the miles of separation. Our closeness has extended over into the second phase of our lives, however, we have once again taken different paths.

Katie, my dear sister recently moved from Oklahoma City where she had formed a community of like minded friendships in the way of worship, outings and sisterhood. She often talked about how she and her friends were received as they went about their daily visits of bringing religious teachings to people doorsteps.

ADVERTISEMENT:

My sister seemed content with her life and faith based teaching... a couple of weeks ago, however,she made the decision to pack up and move to Texas, where she could assist in the care of her grandchildren while her daughter furthered her career...

My sister is homesick for her friends and old life in Oklahoma. She calls way more frequently than she's ever done! She says she can't reach anyone in the sector of worhip where she's been calling and calling...even though, she loves the three bedroom townhouse- she hates the antiquated sink in the kitchen and the fact that the street lights stay on all night; preventing her from getting a good night's sleep...She could go on and on about her dislikes, this introverted sister of mine...

I tell her to take out the neighborhood directory and start looking up the names/addresses of people, write a letter to their organization, thereby way of introduction and get a grip. The newness of this life change will soon dissipate and she will start to reconnect with others who will surely reach out to welcome her with open arms.

I note that we have been on the phone well over an hour...I tell her I love her. She says she will call again on Friday...I say a special prayer from my lips to God's ears, that my younger sister's journey into midlife will be filled with joys, laughter and good feelings that new friendships always bring...

Clara B. Freeman