The Strength of a Circle

Circle
"cir·cle /ˈsərk(ə)l/ - noun
a group of people with shared professions, interests, or acquaintances.
 
The above is one of the two definitions generally used for a circle. And as such, I think about how, as I get older, my variety of and reliance upon my "circles" have shifted.

Early on, it was about my circle of friends. They were so important growing up, through college and even as a young wife and mother. I can't imagine not having them around to help me decide the right (or wrong, now that I look at old pictures) outfits and hairdos. Life just wouldn't thane been as fun without them. But then, as time moved on, my circle of influence became a necessary commodity.

If I was going to establish myself as more than someone's wife or mother, I sought to surround myself with other women who had done just that. My wonderful circle of influence held my hand and helped me to crawl, then walk into that sweet balance of leveraging what I had to offer as a professional, while not missing a beat at home, supporting my thriving family in all that goes on with managing the household and everyone in it!!

But eventually, I grew to understand and respect the significance of my inner circle. And if you don't have one, you're missing out!!!!! What's funny about all this "circle" talk is this; when I reference my circle of friends and circle of influence, the above definition applies with no discrepancy, for all of those individuals were connected to me through profession, interest or as an acquaintance----But my INNER CIRCLE consists of some ladies who,  while they may not share my commitment to counseling, or my love for reading and shopping---Are committed to praying until God moves and understand Proverbs 27:17  

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”

They show no concern for degrees or status, just a genuine desire to build each other up by uplifting when times are good and offering comfort when they are not.

Take a few minutes and look around our circle(s)... are they giving you the strength you need to move into your next level?