The company one keeps determines one's character. People join groups where they can freely express their innate nature. You must carefully choose the company you are in. Consider this example: A length of string is a worthless thing,  no one will wear it in the hair or place it reverentially on an idol of God.  But, when it associates itself with a few fragrant flowers, then women decorate their hair with it and devotees place the garland of flowers on the idol they adore.

- Divine Discourse,  17 Aug 1977 .

Evil company demeans and debases any individual- Baba