Who is the first person you turn to when you need encouragement?

For me, it’s hard to name just one person because I’ve been blessed with people in my life who encourage me in different ways. But two of the people I turn to the most are my mom and dad.

My parents have seen me at my best and at some of my lowest moments. They’ve watched me make mistakes, struggle with my emotions, go through difficult jobs and relationships, and face moments when I wasn’t sure what direction my life was going. Even when we don’t always agree, they have continued to love me, encourage me, and remind me that one difficult moment doesn’t define who I am.

I also turn to my faith. Sometimes encouragement doesn’t come from another person—it comes from praying, talking to God, listening to a song that speaks to my heart, or reminding myself that I’ve already survived days I once thought I wouldn’t get through.

I’m learning that asking for encouragement isn’t a weakness. Sometimes we all need someone to remind us of our strength when we’re having trouble seeing it ourselves.

Now I want to hear from you: Who is the first person you turn to when you need encouragement, and what makes that person so special to you?