To the sisterhood I found,

I just want to say thank you.

Thank you for making me a part of your life. I've wasted so much time chasing people who never truly wanted me or appreciated me, so I've learned to stop focusing on negative people and toxic relationships. You taught me that by being there for me, most likely listening to my weird lame jokes or rants, that what I have to say matters and that I am appreciated. I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate you are.

I used to let people make me feel small. I used to always just go with the flow. I never spoke up for myself, I would allow people to determine my self-worth. My self-confidence was never high and one day I came to terms with that, which now looking back I realize how unacceptable that is. When I found my sisterhood and first met the wonderful women, everything clicked. Everything made sense. I no longer felt like an awkward outsider forcing herself to belong.

Finally, I found people who made me feel loved and accepted in a way I never experienced outside of my family. I've made friends who show me unconditional love, and I've been able to go outside my comfort zone and explore all the possibilities life has to offer.

I no longer feel small, I no longer feel weak. Instead, I feel empowered because of the overflowing love and support are given to me by this sisterhood. I now stand as a confident, self-aware woman. I would have never gotten here if it was not for the sisterhood I have found in college.

These women knew the kind of person I was before even I did and have been shaping me ever since. Once I embraced these women and brought them in my life, I went from living a life full of stress and chaos to something full of clarity.

Everything about my sisterhood from the beginning has been authentic and genuine. I've created real bonds, true friendships and found my place. I am a strong, independent woman but everyone needs a group of people to stand behind them. I know that I will have a support system during rough times, friends to celebrate during good times, and an everlasting bond that will live on forever. College is only for four years (most of the time), but this sisterhood will last forever. Not only is this something I wanted for myself, but this is something I want for everyone. Everyone deserves to feel unconditional love.

Whether it's your sorority, your teammates, your high school friends, or the awesome roommate you were randomly assigned to live with, go find those special people you connect with. Life' better when you're surrounded by people who care. When you find your sisterhood, squad, tribe, or whatever you want to call it, hold on to them and never let go.