Those I Meet

I am shaped by those I meet. Every encounter I am faced with, every obstacle that blocks my path, alters my life in some way. The friends I have met stay with me, long after we chose different paths. I have met strangers in many places. Strangers who assisted in forming who I am today. Some assisted me to the next level in my growth. Others only pushed me down. I have been inspired and heartbroken. I have rejoiced and mourned. Our life begins as an empty canvas. But with each experience and encounter, a brushstroke is applied and eventually a full portrait takes the place of the empty canvas.