Life flows like a stream, ever shaped by the currents and the winds of circumstance. In His infinite mercy, God has woven a beautiful tapestry of existence. As we embark on our individual journeys of human connection, we come to realize that each person we encounter is not merely a stranger, but a mirror reflecting the complexities of who we are.
Have you ever pondered why couples or even friends often share similar behaviors and oftentimes physical traits? This phenomenon is a manifestation of the mirror effect. The mirror effect illustrates how individuals tend to reflect the traits, emotions, and behaviors of those around them. This dynamic is evident in the relationships we cultivate within churches, schools, workplaces, families, and various social gatherings. Mirroring occurs both consciously and unconsciously over time, making it essential to curate an environment that reflects who we aspire to be and what we wish to achieve. As Proverbs 27:17 states, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” This verse serves as a poignant reminder that the company we keep profoundly influences our character.
In law school, while reading is undoubtedly a significant aspect, the people we choose to engage with have an even deeper impact on our personal growth—be it in academic pursuits, spiritual development, or all around life in general. That’s why there’s a need for some level of intentionality with our association. Often times human nature inclines us to gravitate towards negative traits, making it all too easy to adopt bad habits from friends and family hence one must tread cautiously; as 1 Corinthians 15:33 warns, “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.” If you aspire to be disciplined, diligent, or to achieve any other personal goal, you need to surround yourself with like-minded individuals who embody the characteristics you admire and wish to cultivate within yourself. Strengthening your core is essential to be able to discern what is for you and what is not. Just as we mirror our peers, we can also be mirrored by them. The key difference lies in the strength of our core. As children of God we ought to possess a core that represents and reflects who God is. Is yours resilient enough to filter out the impurities in others? As children of God, we have to recognize that not every habit is worth emulating. We must strive to become mirrors of God, reflecting His light to others. As Matthew 5:16 instructs, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” In all we do and say, we must remember that our true core is God, and we should reflect Him.
Mirroring can be a powerful tool; however, when misused, it has the potential to damage oneself. Ask yourself these critical questions: Who am I? What do I hope to accomplish in life? What are my values and principles? If you struggle to answer these questions, it may indicate that your core is weak and can be easily manipulated, leading you to live someone else’s life and stray from the path God has set for you. I urge us all to build a core worthy of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
By Morayo Emmanuella Otuyelu
Nigerian Law School, Yola Campus.
Last modified: January 17, 2025
