I have made a number of mistakes in my life. My problems started during my early teenage years. Those mistakes have placed me in some very compromising and dangerous situations. Our youth are making some of the same mistakes that I made when I was a teenager. We now live in a technologically advanced society. Almost anything that we want is within reach through our devices; iPad, iPod, laptops, and smartphones. These are very useful tools which allows us to connect with others on a personal as well as in a professional level. The concern with more technology and resources comes the reality of having more opportunities to do different things. Drugs, pills, and sex are more available than in years past. A minor can meet and be lured by an adult predator, acting as a teenager online. This can happen within the comforts of a child’s home.

I encourage parents to work extra hard at being there as a “shield and guard” for your children. No, we can’t protect them from life and they will have to learn some things through experience. When noticing sudden changes in their behavior, then I urge you not to brush it off as growing pains. They might need your direct intervention and support at that very moment. We must work towards helping our youth make better decisions concerning their lives. I got into a lot of trouble by simply choosing to do the wrong thing. Teenagers now have assistance with the bombardment of the internet. I just encourage adults to be aware of the many challenges and offer guidance in the times of need.

“My hope is that by sharing my story, others will learn from my experiences and began to make better choices.” This is a quote by Author, Mark L Baynard,100 Years: A Journey to End a Vicious Cycle http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00TLXK5L6