My roommate only wears earth-tones. I mean, one time, I got her to wear red, and it was a huge milestone. Yesterday, as I was rummaging through our closets for an outfit, I noticed that though her wardrobe has expanded to include brighter colors, my wardrobe has faded into more neutral tones. What a weird way to change because of a friendship. My mom's constant repitition of "You are who you associate yourself with," immediately popped into my head. Growing up, I never thought much about it. I thought I was myself, and no one could influence that. However, as I grow older, I have realized that it's true. My friends have influenced me in both small and large ways: from wardrobe to lingo to food preference to religious conviction. I am so blessed to have the friends I do, and though we change each other, here are the reasons I always become a better version of myself when I've been spending time with them.

1. They challenge me to be the person I want to be.

"You can do anything as long as you try hard and believe in yourself." One of my friend's said this frequently as we traveled together, and it's so true. My friends have encouraged me to push the limits I set for myself, and I couldn't be more thankful for them.

2. They call me out when I need it.

My friends know that being a friend doesn't mean letting me get away with things I shouldn't do. If they see me doing something I shouldn't do, they call me out on it.

3. They have seen me at my worst, and still hold me.

The mad, the sad, and the downright confused. My friends have held my hands through it all, and they haven't let go.

4. They encourage me to find happiness.

"You have to create your own happiness." As a friend was holding me during one of those troubled times, she said this to me. My friends will always be there to help me find that goodness.

5. They believe in me.

They help me study, pick out clothes for interviews, and even give me pep talks. Their support and belief in me helps me believe in myself--and that is a blessing.

6. Their family is my family.

Their moms invite me to family game night, and I'm always there. They call my mom by her first name and turn to her for advice.

7. I can always come to them. No matter the time.

Whatever I need, they support me.

8. They share with me.

Okay, maybe they don't share food, but who can blame them? They at least share their lecture notes and take me for ice cream.

9. They celebrate with me.

Whether I've gotten a big promotion or decided that it's time to be free from a job, they're always there with confetti and cake.

10. They grieve with me.

If I cry, they cry with me. (And if you broke my heart, Lord have mercy once they get ahold of you.)

11. They're weird with me.

Got a zit? We'll definitely pop that for each other. Road trip? We're in.

12. They chill with me.

If it's been a long day, no pressure to talk. We can just hang out.

So, let your friends change you! They'll not only teach you about yourself, but they'll help you become a better friend.