Eternally Grateful for Sisterhood

 “Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion.” –Truvy, Steel Magnolias

“Pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick and pull yourself together.” -Elizabeth Taylor

One of my all time favorite movies is Steel Magnolias. I have probably seen it about 100 times. I remember being anxious for the premier in 1989. It was filmed on location in Natchitoches, LA, which is only 140 miles from my hometown. I wanted to see if I would recognize any of the landmarks around town; not knowing that it would be the characters that I would recognize more than anything else.

It is based upon a true story written by the playwright, Robert Harling, in dealing with the death of his sister. The title alludes to the strength of these Southern women being as delicate as a magnolia but tough as steel.

I know every single character that is portrayed in the movie by growing up in my small town. But in real life they might be a little bit sassier!  Southern women are tough indeed.

My husband never understands why I have a need to watch something that is so sad. He knows that I will end up crying every time if I happen to catch it showing on a cable channel on TV. There is something about seeing these women support each other in the midst of tragedies together that has always resonated with me.

Through the losses in my life, I have always been able to rely on my own “Steel Magnolias.” Whether it has been my five amazing sisters or close friends or those friends that I haven’t seen in years; there has always been strong women present in these hard times.

There is a certain code among us that we all abide by in supporting each other in loss. Take for instance, “Oh, honey I love those shoes and your hair looks wonderful” which I heard right before the visitation services were about to begin. I know that it really means, “I am so sorry. I love you so much and I am here for you when you need to scream and have a glass of wine.”

And often times it only takes a simple glance of an old friend as you exit the church filled with more grief than you ever thought possible. Her smile assures you that your broken heart will heal in time.

One of the reasons I used a tube of lipstick in the Livin’ Sassy logo is because it represents perseverance in my mind. Although life can hand you some pretty difficult things to get past, you work through them with prayer and the support of your friends; albeit sisterhood.

Hearts heal with the love and support of one another, especially from sisters and girlfriends.

And for this, I am eternally grateful.

Stay Sassy Y’all.