They call themselves the “The 69 Sisters” based upon their graduation from high school in 1969.

I first met the women briefly back in May, as my son and I were dining at the next table in the back room — at their favorite restaurant, “Stella A’s.” Instantly, I was fascinated by their banter, fun and commitment to each other. I was intrigued by their closeness and laughter, and asked why they were gathering. As we were leaving, I inquired if I could possibly interview them next time they were in town, and they agreed to include me.

In the interview, they discussed the heart of their remarkable journey together, describing the stories of love, laughter and resilience. From their high school days to navigating the trials and successes of adulthood, these women have stood united. They grew together with each passing year, rooted in their strong foundation of shared memories and unforgettable moments.

The women are all 72 years of age, and filled with vigor, intellect and energy. One of the things that I noticed from the minute I sat down at their table was the incessant joy and laughter. Their funny stories seemed like a continuous pajama party, and they did in fact describe their experiences together using those words.

PHOTO PROVIDED Members of “The 69 Sisters” enjoy talking and reminiscing during their most recent reunion at Stella A’s.

Curious about the link that kept the women connected after all these years, I posed a question that revealed the core of their journey: “What pivotal moments or turning points strengthened your bond as friends?” They shared with me moments of connection, and told stories revealing how they supported each other during life’s most difficult trials — battling breast cancer, losing children and the chaos of divorce. I wanted to learn more about each of the women and the details about their challenges, but that will have to wait for another day.

Since life is full of obligations and distractions, I inquired as to what their secret was to coordinating their gatherings each year. Almost in unison, they said, “Elizabeth,” the group’s main organizer and guided force, who they described in their words as, “our glue” who “keeps the group together.” I probed further, “Don’t people usually make excuses as to why they can’t attend?” They immediately answered, all at once, that their event was “too important not to come!” Most of the women are local, but several even travel in from out-of-state from New Jersey, Maryland and South Carolina.

Emile Durkheim, a classical sociologist, studied groups and the collective consciousness that binds individuals together within societies. He posited that the collective conscience is comprised of shared beliefs, norms and values, which function as the adhesive connecting individuals to society.

Durkheim’s perspective finds robust significance in the case of The 69 Sisters, as their annual gatherings manifest a collective consciousness, which transcends the ordinary and mundane, rooted in the common memories and experiences they shared over the decades. The group’s rituals, anecdotes and the tangible joy that permeates their interactions, suggests a shared understanding that transcends the passage of time.

Durkheim also introduced the concept of “anomie,” the breakdown of social norms leading to disorientation. In this context, the women’s consistent gatherings act as a prophylactic for potential anomie. Their yearly meetings (which today has evolved into quarterly gatherings) provide a sense of structure and continuity, anchoring them in an ever-changing world. Elizabeth, their main organizer, embodies the role of a collective conscience in forming and sustaining these reunions. She keeps alive the shared values and traditions that have guided them through the years, countering any disorienting effects or difficulties that could interfere with their gatherings throughout time. Their very first meeting launched despite a severe snowstorm!

PHOTO PROVIDED Members of “The 69 Sisters” enjoy talking and reminiscing during their most recent reunion at Stella A’s.

The women’s tradition of annual gatherings reaffirms Durkheim’s assertion that the essence of human happiness often lies in the act of showing up. Their commitment to this ritual signifies the importance of being present for one another, regardless of the complications of life. The strength of The 69 Sisters lies not only in shared memories, but also in the collective consciousness that reminds them of their common bond.

In the end, the collective sentiment of these women teaches us a profound lesson — that amidst life’s complexities, one crucial truth remains: showing up matters. This truth, embodied by their steadfast tradition, reinforces the power of presence and camaraderie in weaving the intricate fabric of human connection.

The 69 Sisters demonstrate that genuine connections formed during our formative years can endure the challenges of adulthood, offering hope and motivation for building their lasting relationships. Theirs is a testament to the long-lasting friendships which have stood the test of time, and can serve as clear inspiration for younger generations.

The story of The 69 Sisters offers us a chance to reflect on our own friendships and the value of maintaining connections that stand the test of time. Their story can inspire readers by showing the transformative power of time and shared experiences, and how bonds between people can strengthen over decades.

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Dr. Kimberly Johnson is a Sociology professor at Lock Haven University. She teaches courses in Economic Sociology, Medical Sociology and Society and the State.