[HotDamnImAPhiMu]

I think a lot of new members -- women especially -- experience a sort of "reality strikes" period shortly after they're initiated.

Many sororities shelter their pledges from the reality of sisterhood -- that it is, in fact, sisterhood, not one big long gift-giving, hugging, singing, shirt-matching picnic. There are girls you'll fight with and girls you'll disagree with, girls who will go through hard times, and YOU will go through hard times and at turns feel wholly supported and not supported in the way you want to....

pixell gave you great advice. Focus on why you were interested in joining, and what you want -- TRULY want -- to get out of the sisterhood.

I went through a rough spot with my sorority. It really made me grow up. It made me realize that I'd made a committment for a lifetime. It made me realize that these women were my sisters, no matter what. It made me realize that you can argue with people and still be friends. It made me realize that there is almost always a sliver lining. It made me realize that I will have a support base, no matter where I go, in my sorority. It made me realize that I had been trusted with secrets that have been kept by women for over 150 years, and that I was a part of carrying on that legacy. It made me realize what loyalty is. It made me realize what true friendship is. It made me realize what is so special about the friendship between women. It made me realize where I am strong and where I am weak.

It was hard and sometimes I wanted to quit.

I didn't. That was the best decision I ever made. Even smarter than the decision I made to join.