Positive Alternatives

Today's message is simple. Take care of your own well-being so you are able to continue the good work you do. It is impossible to do anybody any good if you do not take care of yourself as well. It's a beautiful day to take a walk, ride a bike, or go for a run. Your physical and mental health will go a long way in making the world a better place.

Our CADCA training this past week in Alexandria, VA., allowed for us to meet with some outstanding Drug Free Coalition members from across the country. Sometimes it's just best to sit back, listen, and soak in the positive vibes!

Sitting in my hotel room, attending coalition training, reflecting on the burden of the fame of others and watching the night planes land over our nation's capital. It all fits together pretty nicely.

The 51-year old man was arrested shortly after he struck and killed a beautiful young girl as she was walking near her high school in Downers Grove, Il. He was found to have been high on Crack cocaine after the 10:55 AM "accident". But, can you honestly call this violent act an accident? What do you call it?

In this Positive Alternative 5 Minute Thoughts episode we ask you to forget your past and any mistakes you may have made. Focus on the future. The world needs helping hands. You just might be the right person for the job. Empowering folks need to apply!

The primary focus of the podcast is on the teens. That, of course, includes the adults who influence teen behavior. We have driven many miles and have spoken to thousands of young people about the power of good choices. Keep repeating the good choices and before you know it, it won't be a good "choice". It will simply just be who you are.

Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts - What a wild ride it was today in court as the emotions went from a bit of anger, to a bit of sadness, and ended with a big happy grin all in a short span of about 20 minutes. Working in the people business is never dull.

Those things that seem simple are often the things that fool us. Not everyone chooses the best path or lives the best life. Life can sometimes be a struggle. Be the empowering friend. Have a lasting impact.

Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts - Elisabeth Kubler Ross has determined there are 5 Stages of Grief. They are Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance. I argue they are not necessarily "stages". They are waves that come intermixed and can be seemingly overwhelming. But by living your life in honor of your loved one; you can overcome the seemingly overwhelming struggle.

A great time sitting down with Matt Quinn as we talk about Vaping, Juul, and the impact of e-cigarettes on our teens. Matt is on the front lines of educating parents about the harm e-cigarettes can have on the still developing teen brain. We also talk about Rosecrance and the great work they do for those in need.

Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts - Like it or not, we set the examples for our youth to follow. It is our responsibility to set a high quality life style example for our children and our children's children.

Rich Wistocki fights the good fight on numerous fronts. He addresses Teen Sexting, Cybersecurity, as well as assisting First Responder treatment for PTSD, Addiction, or Process Addiction. You can also hear Rich in his role as a Public Speaker on TedX and the nationally recognized "Cop and The Convict" presentations with Tim Ryan. Rich does not wait for others to step up, he's the guy who gets the job done.

With over 600 DUI Arrests on record, Officer Stafiej fully understands that keeping the citizens of Carol Stream safe from impaired, and distracted, driving takes commitment. He is, and will be forever, a Local Hero for the good people of Carol Stream, Il.

We are pulled and tugged at in many different directions. This includes even the work of informing your people to make good choices when it comes to Drugs and Alcohol. The answers might seem maddeningly obvious but the battle continues. Personal choice has a wide ranging impact.

Positive Alternatives 5 Minute Thoughts - We have been fortunate to meet so many great people on our journey. This podcast reflects on how two families have impacted me, and many others...and may not even realize their effect.