"Be aware of your surroundings".

It's the advice my mom has always given me for as long as I can remember. For obvious reasons it is important to be aware of where you are or what is around you, but more importantly, to be aware of who you surround yourself with.

I am realizing more and more how important it is to be surrounded by people who know and understand you. People who have your best interest at heart. People who genuinely love and care about you. People to constantly encourage you. People who can advise you to be the best version of yourself. Because they have seen and known you at your best, but have stayed while you went through the worst.

I am blessed and fortunate to have been given a family that always has my best interest in mind. They've proven to be a crucial support system, and I am constantly reminded of their unconditional love through their advice. My parents and sisters have each been an example before me throughout my entire life. A house overdosed on estrogen and love has proven to be one of my favorite settings.

Luckily, we get to choose who we call our "friends", and I get the privelege of adding "best" in front of that title quite often. Oftentimes, I think about the relationships I have in my life, and the people who make my life a little easier. These people are who I choose to surround myself with as much as possible. I am always thinking about where, how, and who to spend my time with. Being around genuine people never fails to feel like a home for me.

More important than having genuine people to call friends or family, is to be that person for others. We have all known, or know, someone who is quick to judge or embrace the negative first. And I think we could all agree that they are probably not the first person we want to be surrounded by, or make plans with.

It is no secret that our surroundings influence our attitude, desires, or response. Likewise, the people who are by our side have a tremendous influence on how we view ourselves and the world we live in.

I was always encouraged to be aware of my surroundings; I encourage you to be aware of yours. Take a look at who is by your side now, who has proven to support you, and who is no longer there to experience life's moments with you. Then, consider your physical surroundings, and realize your influence on them.

Are you satisfied with who and what surrounds you?