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Quitting smoking is no joke—it’s a journey filled with both victories and stumbles. But, as I’ve learned in other areas of my life, a little bit of faith and practical tools can go a long way. That's why I’m relying on two key things to get through this: prayer and nicotine patches. Let’s talk about patches first. I’ve been using them for a while now, and they do help take the edge off. Instead of getting hit with those powerful cravings that feel like they're taking over your entire brain, the patch keeps things steady. It's like having a quiet...

In some forms of psychology, we develop what’s called a Wellness Toolbox. It’s a collection of activities, habits, or things that make us feel good, helping us manage stress, lift our mood, or simply take a break from the chaos of daily life. These are the little rewards we give ourselves — the warm fuzzies — for doing something nice, something that fills our emotional tank. In my Wellness Toolbox, I’ve stocked up on a variety of activities that help me stay grounded and bring joy to my day. Here’s what I’ve packed: Coffee or a Soda: Sometimes, it’s the...

If you’ve ever found yourself eavesdropping on a random, outrageous conversation at a bus stop, then Dan Joyce’s Bus Stop Talk will feel both familiar and thrillingly unpredictable. This book delves deep into the sharp edges of urban life, addiction, and the struggles of modern existence, all while being wrapped in Joyce’s unique humor and philosophical musings. With his distinct illustrative style adding to the narrative, Bus Stop Talk is more than just a book—it’s an experience. At its core, this book offers a series of candid and often absurd dialogues, reflecting the complexity of human nature in the most...

I might be relocated to a shelter in Laguna Beach soon. While this brings some uncertainty, there's a silver lining: it could help me stay away from smoking. Cigarettes will be more expensive there, and that cost is something I’d rather save to fund my business goals. The price difference alone might be the motivation I need to kick the habit for good. Yesterday and today have already been promising. By avoiding the sections of my current facility near the smoking areas, I’ve had far fewer cravings. It’s a small step, but it shows me that I can do this....

I wanted to take a moment to share more about my mental illness, so you can better understand what I’ve gone through and continue to experience. My first and most significant psychotic break happened when I was about 21 years old. It was as if the world around me had shifted, and I started believing that the radio and television were talking about me in a roundabout, inferencing way. This experience left a lasting impact on me, and to this day, I still struggle with understanding inferences and innuendos. Discerning reality from illusion has been a challenge for me. One...