Who do you listen to? Who do you allow to guide your growth and development? Today, let's talk about the value of good guides.

Many people who are blind rely on a guide dog to see what they cannot. If you wanted to explore the African jungle, you'd probably seek out an experienced leader. Whenever you are entering unfamiliar territory, it can help enormously to have a guide, one you can trust and count on for good advice.

Children rely on their parents, parents have trusted friends and family members, and nations look to their political leaders for guidance and direction. Sometimes we turn to professionals, counselors, clergy, and teachers to help us sort out options and find the best path.

Who do you listen to? Who do you turn to for guidance? These are very important questions. Often it is not so much what a guide can tell us that influences us, but it is their attitude, toward us and toward life, that is our best teacher.

Make sure your guides believe strongly in your ability and right to be self-determining, to make your own choices. Seek out those with experience to share, and enough wisdom to allow you your own experience as well.

Look for people who don't overwhelm you with advice, who listen carefully and with compassion, and who don't label or judge you. These are the people in whom you can safely place your trust, and who will help you get where you want to go.