Gratitude – Week 7

Bad company corrupts good character!

This was the Facebook status of one of my friends.

I was taught to be careful of the company I keep. This principle is one of many that derives from the proverb;

He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.”

Over the year’s people have developed new way of delivering this message with quotes like, “Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future” and “A man is known by the company he keeps”. 

Life has a way of shedding light on one’s nature. However, I believe, we have a duty to reflect and nurture good characteristics throughout. Our understanding of good character is limited to our social norms. There seems to be a narcissistic movement which encourages people to have an inflated sense of self. This self-indulgent mindset causes people to do whatever feels good with little or no regard for others.

With that said I am grateful for the company I keep (they do not entertain narcissistic traits). I am surrounded by positive, God fearing men and women who are wise in their approach to everyday matters. They encourage and inspire me to be and do better and to in turn, support others on their journey.

It is inevitable that this ‘journey of life’, will bring about change, which should encourage character forming opportunities. I am grateful for the people that have supported me along my journey and I endeavour to reflect good characteristic such as honesty, respect, integrity, compassion, and humility.

What characteristic do you consider important?