The people we know and those whom we rely on tend to have an inexplicably large impact on the way we think, the way we act, and the way we interact. The people we chose to surround ourselves with have a similar impact on the way we consider ourselves, even if neither we nor they realize it. With some we think of ourselves as lazy, with some mean, with some incredibly generous. We see not how we truly are, but as a reflection in this other person of what the person does not possess. We ourselves do not change, only the standards, expectations, or needs of those around us do. To make these people more comfortable, therefore, we provide for them these things by emphasizing the parts of ourselves that cater to what is lacking. This happens all the time, sometimes to a higher degree than other times, and if we're not careful, sometimes it can consume us, and we can lose our true selves in it.

Just thought I'd share.