I’m always amazed—and deeply grateful—for those potent moments when we gather in circle with others who nourish our hearts and souls. Sometimes it happens spontaneously, like a spark of magic. Other times, it’s created with intention. Either way, it holds a richness that lingers.

I’m speaking of those moments when like-hearted friends come together around a shared interest or purpose. The kind of gathering where conversation flows easily, the experience deepens, and by the end, you’ve discovered something not only about each other—but about yourself.

It could be a book club where everyone’s reading the same novel. A family celebration marking a milestone. Or, as was true for me this past weekend, a workshop with others committed to self-awareness and personal growth.

Part of the magic lies in the conversations: the insights shared, the unexpected “aha” moments when you hear something new or see from a different perspective. But just as meaningful are the moments of quiet and reflection—the pauses that allow you to catch up with yourself. Sometimes, in that space, you notice that something has shifted. You realize you’ve changed. And you know it’s true.

It’s easy to isolate, even when we don’t mean to. I enjoy my alone time—in fact, I need it. But then I find myself in circle again, and I remember: it’s through others that we come to know ourselves more clearly.

Sometimes we’re seen as we used to be, even if we’ve moved on inwardly. When those around us still reflect back an old version of who we were, it becomes all the more powerful to notice for ourselves: I’m not in that same place anymore. I’ve grown. I’ve changed. And I can feel it.

That, to me, is one of the most beautiful reasons to cultivate meaningful relationships. We mirror each other—especially the parts of ourselves we no longer see clearly. We hold up our own mirror every day, but it often reflects the familiar. Sometimes it takes seeing ourselves through someone else’s eyes—especially a group who’s also looking inward—to realize just how much we’ve changed.

Today, I’m especially grateful for the powerful circles in my life. For the moments of connection that help me see who I am—and who I’m becoming.