When I was a young man I was taught that “you can’t fly like an eagle when you are stuck with the turkeys”. That was my youth sports coach’s way of telling me to find good friends, people who wanted to be and do something with their life, and not get caught up in the wrong crowd.
Often we think we “mature” out of cliques, but we really don’t. Everyone is influenced by their support and peer group and it’s critically important to surround yourself with loving, encouraging, positive, growing, life-affirming people…ESPECIALLY at Christmas!
Somehow Christmas often becomes a dread because we allow ourselves to be surrounded by people who are negative, or a negative influence. For those who are in drug and alcohol recovery, surrounding yourself with people who will affirm your new life is critically important at the holidays. Yet even for those who have never struggled with that challenge, it remains the same. Who gives you life? Who brings joy and laughter to you in a positive way? Are there people who bring out the worst habits in you?
At Christmas, give yourself the gift of a good friend. Spend time with those who influence you to keep growing…and toward your better self.
Who is on your Christmas Crew? Who do you love to spend time with?