Touching on religion vs spirituality, and referencing religion from my childhood. I look at how religion impacted my friends, and how it has morphed into some kind of political edge, more so than actually being about God or goodness.

Remembering back to when I should have been care free, instead I was dealing with an abusive mom, a sick dad, fleas, drug experimentation, and trying to grow up through it all. I also recall how I treated Teddy when he didn't deserve that. 

Gotta love the holidays and family gatherings, small as they may be now. Even with the best of intentions, words hurt and comments sting. I love my family, but sometimes some comments hang with me longer than they should.

The jealousy that comes from abuse and narcissism in childhood impacts how children grow, learn and think of themselves. It feeds who they are and spreads like a virus until it effects every aspect of their adult lives. Jealousy is worse than a little green monster, it consumes your self worth.