#BeThatSister

by Barb Dunn Zipperian, Kappa Kappa (Ball State U), International Vice President

I want to be that sister – the one upon whom you have no fear to call. I love this promise we share. It always makes me tear up when I hear it because it is so comforting and gives me such a sense of belonging. I want to live it so that I can keep my promise and hopefully inspire others to do the same.

I am also reminded of this promise when I hear the Colbie Caillat song, Never Gonna Let You Down.

If you need someone to believe in
If you’re reaching for a hand to guide you home
Just take my hand and I won’t let you go.
I hope you know
I’m never gonna let you down.
I’m always gonna build you up
And when you’re feeling lost
I will always find you love.
I’m never gonna walk away
I’m always gonna have your back
And if nothing else you can always count on that.
When you need me
I promise I will never let you down.

I think this song sums it up. Because Alpha Omicron Pi was founded upon sisterhood and service to others, we have a wonderful support system and a set of values that we uniquely share. We have so many opportunities to build each other up, support each other and believe in each other. It might occur during recruitment or exams, when the hours are long and the stress is high. There might be other chances to help a sister who is ill, just had a child, or is mourning a loss of some kind.

Of course, we all aren’t perfect. There are times that we may feel a little more selfish, lazy, or forgetful.  We also make mistakes and need that little bit of grace, forgiveness, or the benefit of the doubt. These are the times when our promise is so important and can make a difference. When we choose to be that sister, it not only shows our sisterhood how much we care, but it also shows others outside of our group that Alpha Omicron Pi is special, sacred, and worth joining.

So, I am going to try to be that sister. I’ll build you up, I’ll never walk away. I’ll have your back, and I’ll never let you down. But if for some reason I need your support, grace or the benefit of the doubt, please be that sister for me. The one I have no fear to call.

#BeThatSister