Most of us grew up hearing, “It’s just a joke” or “Take a joke.” Maybe we even thought it was harmless, playful, or a way to bond. I believed it too. Until I started paying attention. Here’s the truth: teasing is criticism disguised as humor. It’s anger without ownership. And it always comes at a cost.

We all have a past. Some of us have things we are proud of, some we are ashamed of, and most of us have moments that shaped us in ways we did not choose. Here’s the truth: your past is not something that happens to you today. The only power it has over your present and future is the power you give it through your thoughts. I have lived a past most people would call broken. I have been in prison, struggled with alcohol, faced failed marriages, and carried shame that felt impossible to shake. I used to think all of that meant I was branded for life. That it would always limit me. But I was wrong. I changed my past. You can too.

Teen addiction is rising, and it’s not just about drugs or alcohol. Shane Jacob breaks down why teens turn to addictive behaviors, what drives these choices, and how parents and mentors can help them build self-belief to prevent or overcome addiction. This article provides insights and strategies to protect and guide the teens in your life.

Most people think vanity is bad. They think it means arrogance or thinking you are better than everyone else. I disagree. Admiring your own achievements and appearance is not bad. Pride is feeling good about what you have done. Being proud is valuing yourself.Society confuses self-acceptance with superiority. You only become arrogant if you put others down. Admiring yourself does not do that. It gives you the foundation to grow, contribute, and love more fully.

Your style tells the story of how you see yourself. The question is, are you telling that story on purpose or by accident?

Horses taught me to keep things simple. They do not speak English. You have to break everything down into the simplest steps if you want them to understand. Here is the way forward when you feel powerless. The secret to getting unstuck when things are not going your way.