Clay.

“A friend is one that knows you as you are, understands where you have been, accepts what you have become, and still, gently allows you to grow.” – William Shakespeare

What makes you, you? I’m not talking about major things like your DNA breakdown but the little things. Little things like that one sweater that makes you feel at home or that one Starbucks drink that always makes your day a little bit better.

I’m guessing you weren’t born then suddenly became who you are today. Sure, you have the same DNA but there was a journey to go through to really become you. For example, you don’t simply step outside your house and instantly end up at work or school or wherever (if you do, please share the how-to on that one). Instead, there is a process what gets you there. Life is the same way. We are kind of born as this big lump of clay. We may have some things set in stone but for the most part we are being shaped our entire lives. Our personalities are shaped. Our likes our dislikes. What we want to do or where we want to go is all pliable. Different things shape us in life. We can be shaped by our family, by our surroundings by our dreams, by our friends. Many things can shape us into who we are. Think about the people in your life.How do they help make you, you? What is it about them that inspires that?

I used to think that friends were the people who stood beside you and backed you up on any issue, even if they disagreed. The older I get the more I realize true friends help shape you. They never demand you to be what you’re not but, as Shakespeare said, “know you as you are, understand where you have been, accept what you have become, and still, gently allow you to grow.” When I think about my life I can point out distinct parts of me that certain friends inspired. It always makes me smile to realize the impact these people have had on my life and how grateful I am for them.

Do you have people in your life that has always accepted you for you and still helped mold you into who you are now? If so, you are lucky to have at least one good friend your life.

Remember to be cautious about who’s allowed to mold you and always take advantage of the little ways that allow you to be you.