My friends are all smarter than I.

I spent the evening at a friend's birthday gathering. The attendees at this event included two composers, an actor, a choreographer, a filmmaker, and me. They were all, undoubtedly, smarter than I am and I found myself humbled by my lack of knowledge about several topics of conversation - although I definitely held my own in the area of vocal style and the operatic tradition. I left the evening feeling exhilarated by stimulating conversation and embarrassed by many glaring holes in my knowledge of certain topics of great global significance. On my way home, I made a promise to myself to read more.

I also have a group of girlfriends with whom I have an ongoing group text. We hear from each other most days about both the mundane and the extraordinary events of our daily lives. Every day I am humbled by each of their strengths, insights, and commitment to personal growth. They make me strive to live a better, more meaningful, more honest life. They inspire me to let go of things that do not serve me and to think about things in new ways. I am a better person because of these ladies.

I hope you, dear reader, also have people in your life who challenge you to grow and learn.