Good People Bring Out the Good in People

I realize now I could probably make a down-payment on a lake house with the amount of money I have overpaid for coffee over the past four years. In addition, I could probably buy a boat with the amount of money I have spent eating out with friends.

Even though my bank account might argue differently, my favorite part about college has been the ability to hangout with my favorite people in the crack of a whip. Minimal mileage between houses has given me the advantage to build a community around me over the past four years.

My friend, Annika, is always willing to buy a plane ticket and lay on the back porch with me while we continue to plan to "get our lives together". My friend, Bailee, is always willing to grab a cup of coffee and remind me in the "reality check tone" I need when I am going down a wrong path. My friend, Brooke, never complains when I send her countless pictures of my dog or if I dress like I own a thrift store. My sister and mom are always there to give me a hug and remind me continuously that I am loved.

There are countless people that I could name that make me feel blessed to be surrounded by them.. but the point I am trying to make is how important it is to be in community.

Just like your parents tell you it is important not to hang out with the "wrong crowd", it is equally important to surround yourself with good people.

Whether you realize it or not, the people who are in your life have a huge impact on you individually.

If you are constantly around negative thinkers, your perception of things around you will shift negatively. If you are around those who commit actions that are unhealthy, you are more likely to justify it if you follow their activities. If you are around those who do not agree with your values or morals, you are more likely to compromise yours.

It is important to notice the relationships in your life and how they are impacting you.

If you surround yourself with those who believe in you, you will start believing a little more in yourself. If the company you keep is constantly pushing you to be the best version of yourself, you will hold yourself to a higher standard. If those you surround yourself with are mature in their faith, it can encourage you to pursue yours further. Being in good community helps you to pour into others and shed love. Good community also helps you grow through other people's experiences and receive a positive impact from their wisdom.

Whether it means paying $5 for a cup of coffee or endless sushi dates, surround yourself with those who push you to be the best version of yourself.

Hebrews 10:24-25 “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another"