We have a small vessel by the window where we planted spring onions. Every day, we watched over it, watered it, and carefully removed the weeds that appeared around it.
As time passed, we noticed something important, whenever we neglected the weeding for too long, the growth of the spring onions suffered. The weeds competed for space, nutrients, and sunlight, making it harder for the plant to thrive.
Of course, not everything growing beside it was harmful. Sometimes, a beautiful flower or another healthy plant would sprout nearby, and we would gladly leave it there. The goal was never to remove everything around the plant but to make sure what remained contributed to its growth rather than hindered it.
One day, Chizzy asked me, why do we always pull out the weeds?
I smiled and replied, because whatever stays close to the plant, affects how it grows.
Then I thought about how true that is, not just for plants, but for people.
The people we allow into our lives shape us in ways we may not always notice. Some encourage us, inspire us, and help us become the best version of ourselves. Others can drain our energy, distract us from our purpose, or hold back our growth.
Just like a healthy plant needs the right environment to flourish, we need relationships that nurture our character, dreams, and values.
Growth is not only about what we add to our lives. It is also about having the wisdom to remove what no longer helps us grow.
Here this, young one, who walks beside you, matters.
It is said, show me your friends and I’ll tell you ( no longer who you are) where you’re going
The friendships you build today can shape the person you become tomorrow.
Choose friends who challenge you to dream bigger, work harder, and live with good character. And strive to be that kind of friend for others.
One day, when people look at your life and the direction it has taken, they may see the influence of the people who walked beside you.
Choose your companions wisely.
✍️ Amara Ann Unachukwu
