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Chi Omega Sisters Are a Family

As the old adage goes, “You can’t choose your family but you can choose your friends.” The exception is that by choosing your membership in Chi Omega, you choose a family.

Family dynamics can be interesting and ever-changing. That is the beauty of the intergenerational aspect of our lifetime membership in Chi Omega. We all start off as new members eager to learn about our new family of friends and where we will fit in the chapter. The matching of a Big Sister to a new member certainly echoes the responsibilities and relationship of an older sibling. Being initiated is similar to the feeling of finally getting your driver’s license: You’re entrusted with responsibility and gain a sense of independence.

By remaining involved and engaged in all chapter activities, the seniors were my role models. In the blink of an eye, we all become the seniors of the chapter. Congratulations to our recent graduates and new alumnae! Every time you move to a new city or a Sister moves to your area, you have the opportunity to grow your Chi Omega family. Think about the wisdom in your Chi Omega family and what it has added and could continue to add to your life.

As a child, I remember family reunions being a regular event. Chapter anniversary celebrations of 25, 50, 75, or 100 years are just that—a family reunion for that initiating chapter. I had the honor of attending anniversary celebrations for Phi Delta/Mississippi State U, Pi Zeta/ Western Michigan U, Zeta Alpha/Ohio State U, Upsilon Lambda/Hanover College, and Kappa Zeta/Texas Tech U this biennium. There is nothing better than seeing longlost Sisters hug, reliving the magical stories, and hearing the laughter at such a gathering. Isn’t it time for you to organize or attend a “family reunion” for your chapter or new member class? It doesn’t have to be hundreds of women; it could be a small group renting a beach house or spending a weekend in New York City. You won’t regret it; in fact, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.

Chi Omega does, indeed, bring us closer to our own families. We have stories of children who have tied ribbons on programs for Eleusinian luncheons, parents who have participated in auctions to raise money for philanthropy, and husbands who have “held down the fort” during recruitment week or while their wives travel to a Chi Omega event. My heartfelt appreciation goes out to the spouses and families of our Sisters who volunteer for Chi Omega! You help make it happen every day.

Sisters, we are more than just a club, we are a fraternal organization, we are a family.

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