From the Founder, Brian Mazza 5/11
Jealousy
This is not directed at anyone specifically, but a conversation I had recently with another parent made me think deeply.
She was explaining some of the issues her daughter has been experiencing inside her friend group. Not because of bullying. Not because of conflict. But because so many of the girls were quietly jealous of one another. And eventually, that energy started spilling over into the parents too. Tension. Comparison. Passive comments. Distance. Competition where there should have been connection.
It reminded me of something that applies at every stage of life.
Never underestimate how dangerous it is to surround yourself with envious people.
Jealousy is one of the most destructive energies in the world because it rarely introduces itself loudly at first. It shows up subtly. Backhanded compliments. Lack of support. Diminishing your wins. Feeling uncomfortable when things are going well for you. Smiling in your face while quietly rooting against your growth.
And the reality is this:
People who do not like themselves eventually struggle to genuinely like anyone else who is growing, evolving, or succeeding.
Whatever you do in this life, make sure you build friendships with people who actually like themselves and appreciate their own lives. People who are secure. People who clap when others succeed. People who feel inspired instead of threatened.
Because when you surround yourself with people who are constantly comparing, competing, and secretly resentful, eventually that poison touches everything:
Friendships.
Teams.
Families.
Relationships.
Communities.
One of the greatest life skills we can teach our children is how to identify healthy energy early.
Not everyone deserves access to you just because they are around you.
Protect your peace.
Protect your circle.
Protect your children from environments built on envy instead of encouragement.
The right people will never punish you for shining.
