Former JUMPSTART Alumni, Gustavo Soliz, Receives the "Whatever It Takes Award" During the "Whatever It Takes" Awards ceremony, Contec Inc. recognizes exceptional individuals who have truly embodied the spirit of their company. Gustavo, an alum of the JUMPSTART SC program, was honored with the leadership award for his outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication. Watch Gustavo Soliz Receive the "Whatever It Takes Awards" from Contec Inc. As a natural leader and go-to person at Contec's Flatwood plant, Gustavo received a record number of nominations this year. His colleagues from Flatwood and across the company praised his willingness to jump in and help out however needed. Gustavo's ability to provide assistance and guidance to those around him has made a significant difference in the workplace. During the award ceremony, it was clear that Gustavo's contributions have not gone unnoticed. The heartfelt messages in the nominations highlighted his dedication, leadership, and the positive impact he has on his associates. The number of nominations was truly outstanding, reflecting the high regard in which Gustavo is held by his peers. The JUMPSTART program is designed to provide participants with the skills and opportunities needed to excel in their careers. We aim to enhance employability through comprehensive training, mentorship, and hands-on experience. Gustavo's journey is a testament to the program's success and the impact it can have on an individual's professional growth. Gustavo has been an employee at Contec since October 2017, when Contec hired him while he was in our transitional program. We are thrilled to see Gustavo receive the leadership award this year. His journey from the JUMPSTART program to becoming a key leader at Flatwood is inspiring to us. Gustavo's story is a shining example of how dedication, hard work, and the right opportunities can lead to remarkable achievements. Congratulations, Gustavo, on this well-deserved recognition. 🎉 Thank you to Contec Inc. for partnering with us to offer second-chance employment opportunities to our participants. You are transforming lives!

Charles Wall , President of SC Steel, is a hero to many and his impact in the community extends far beyond his professional achievements. A graduate of Furman University with a degree in Physics and Clemson University with a degree in Civil Engineering, Charles has been a key figure in the revitalization of South Carolina's manufacturing industry. His leadership at SC Steel has significantly contributed to the state's reputation as a powerhouse in advanced manufacturing.   Like many of us, Charles has a busy schedule with countless demands on his time. Yet, every month, he makes a choice that speaks volumes about his belief that it is more blessed to give than to receive. He dedicates his time to those in our transitional program, driving 40 minutes each way to teach essential workplace and leadership skills.  We once offered to record his lessons to save him some time. His response was both humbling and powerful: “Your residents deserve my best,” he said. “I want to look them in the eye and let them know people still believe in them.”   Charles continues to show up in person, embodying the spirit of generosity. His actions remind us all that every day, we have the opportunity to be generous and impact the lives of others. All it takes is making the choice.

Cesare Lombroso was an Italian criminologist who is sometimes referred to as the “father of criminology” because he helped popularize the idea that criminology should be scientifically studied. However, he was also a eugenicist and argued that criminal thinking was an inherited trait and that you could even determine through physical features who was most likely to become a criminal. [1]   Of course, modern social scientists and criminologists completely reject these ideas. And in doing so, they have moved closer to what the Bible teaches: that the mind can be renewed and redeemed:   “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” -Romans 12:2 (ESV)   We cannot change criminal behavior without first transforming the mind. But how do you go about that? Through psychological therapy and behavioral science? Through biblical teaching and practice? Or is possible to marinate these two forces for the greatest impact?   At JUMPSTART, we believe that the greatest rehabilitative and transformative programming happens when the power of faith-based discipleship harmonizes with the tools produced by social science research.   Because we believe that all true transformation starts with the Gospel, we've developed a program grounded in Christian discipleship, emphasizing the growth, understanding, and responsibilities that accompany spiritual progression.   Yet we don't limit ourselves to theological exploration alone. We actively integrate the best findings from social science, ensuring that participants benefit from a holistic blend of spiritual depth and evidence-based insights. This convergence reinforces the idea that the path to discipleship in Christ and the revelations from scientific research are not contradictory but can beautifully amplify each other.   Antisocial Beliefs and Values When I think back to my own life as a criminal, I can see how so much of my beliefs and values were rooted in antisocial thinking. I wanted to be my own god and master—I wanted to be beholden to no other force. So much so, that when I went on the run, my plan in the event of capture was to commit suicide.   I was so blinded by my antisocial beliefs and values, I had lost self-awareness. And my sense of reality was so distorted, I didn’t even consider how I had people in my life who loved me and wanted the best for me, even though I didn't know what that looked like.   JUMPSTART is meticulously designed to foster self-awareness concerning cognitive distortions frequently identified among incarcerated individuals. As noted by Cullen et al. (2017), these distortions can manifest as exaggerated entitlement senses, misinterpretations of reality, tendencies for self-justification, externalized blame, and distrust toward institutional structures. [2] Such misconceptions lead individuals to erroneous interpretations of benign behaviors as threatening. Through its programming, JUMPSTART provides tools for participants to detect and rectify these antisocial patterns.   Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common antisocial patterns associated with criminal behavior:   Substance Abuse There's a well-established connection between substance abuse and criminal activities (King & Delfabbro, 2019). [3] Although JUMPSTART isn’t exclusively geared towards substance abuse intervention, participant testimonials indicate the program's potential to curb substance-related criminal behaviors.   By emphasizing personal purpose as a transformative tool, the program inspires participants with success stories of those who have navigated the challenges of addiction and criminality. When coupled with biblical teaching of finding one’s fulfillment and identity in Christ rather than identifying as an addict, we believe this approach plays a significant role in reducing substance-related recidivism.   We also implement clinical care plans and community-based support for those in our program who have had a history of substance abuse. Through amazing community partnerships with the Spartanburg Access Health and Forrester Center for Behavioral Health, those in our transitional program have access to behavioral and clinical counseling. Even addiction recovery approaches that completely exclude faith, recognize the power of encouragement and accountability in helping one avoid relapse. You can click here read more about national recognition we’ve received for creating best-in-class reentry support partnerships.   Antisocial Peers Recent research, such as that conducted by Monahan et al. (2020), reinforces the notion that an individual’s peer group significantly influences criminal behavior. When surrounded by peers involved in illicit activities, one's likelihood of participating increases. [4]   JUMPSTART educates participants on the profound impact of their social circles, providing strategies for resisting negative influences while fostering positive peer interactions. This is achieved through mechanisms like peer mentorship and community volunteer engagement, creating supportive social networks for participants during and post-incarceration.   One of the methods we use to foster positive peer interactions is through a daily morning huddle where participants share who they are going to encourage that day. It provides a practical way for all participants to both give and receive positive influence, creating a stronger social bonds.   Family Dysfunction The family's role in shaping early behavior and attitudes is crucial, with contemporary research underscoring its impact on eventual outcomes (Smith et al., 2018). Families marked by dysfunction, substance misuse, and criminal behaviors often instigate harmful behavioral patterns. [5]   Recognizing this, JUMPSTART delves deep into these issues, offering holistic solutions for participants to confront and transform these ingrained challenges. For years, people have debated “Nature vs. Nurture,” but both fail to account for the spiritual connection—the combined impact of Nature and Nurture   While Lombroso was wrong about the “nature” of how criminal behavior is passed on, the Bible teaches us how we have inherited sin, generation to generation. The only solution to this spiritual family dysfunction is through adoption into a new family—through Jesus and “the purpose of his will.” (Ephesians 1:5, ESV)   If you'd like to discuss further about JUMPSTART SC's programs or are interested in having me come and share with a group or team, feel free to email me at cary.Sanders@jumpstartvision.org or visit jumpstartvision.org/south-carolina to learn more about our work. Dr. Cary Sanders CEO, JUMPSTART SC [1] Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia. "Cesare Lombroso." Encyclopedia Britannica, January 23, 2024. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Cesare-Lombroso . [2] Cullen, F. T., Jonson, C. L., & Nagin, D. S. (2017). Prisons do not reduce recidivism: The high cost of ignoring science. The Prison Journal, 97(4), 389-404. [3] King, D. L., & Delfabbro, P. H. (2019). The cognitive psychology of Internet gaming disorder. Clinical Psychology Review, 68, 1-13. [4] Monahan, K. C., King, K. M., Shulman, E. P., Cauffman, E., & Chassin, L. (2020). The effects of violence exposure on the development of impulse control and future orientation across adolescence and early adulthood: Time-specific and generalized effects in a sample of juvenile offenders. Development and Psychopathology, 32(2), 509-521. [5] Smith, C. A., Ireland, T. O., & Thornberry, T. P. (2018). Adolescent maltreatment and its impact on young adult antisocial behavior. Child Abuse & Neglect, 84, 313-322.

YOU multiplied hope by raising $1,605,483! We are overwhelmed by this incredible generosity shown! As a result of the community rallying together to purchase additional homes for Restoration Village and complete the Indigo Hope Center, many men and women will now have a JUMPSTART on their future.     Here’s a breakdown of the remarkable impact our donors have made through the Indigo Hope Gift Matching Challenge:    Amount Given for Homes $500,000  Fully Fund Construction of Indigo Hope Center $580,000   Furniture and Décor for Indigo Hope Center $100,000  Commercial Equipment $80,000  Funding for Mission (Prison & Re-entry Program) $367,647    Total Given (Including Indigo Hopes Match of $650k): $1,605,483    The construction and furnishing of two additional homes will enable us to serve 10 more individuals in our transitional program.  These aren’t just Johns and Janes, they are mothers and fathers, sons and daughters, and brothers and sisters in Christ. Each one will now have transformational opportunities as they rebuild their lives after incarceration. This is truly a win worth celebrating!     Watching the Indigo Hope Center take shape has been exhilarating. By the end of this year, the men and women in JUMPSTART SC’s transitional program will benefit from groundbreaking programming and events tailored to foster community, encouragement, and accountability—all within the heart of Restoration Village.  What once seemed distant is now within reach, as we witness God preparing this space for fellowship, job opportunities, and life-changing transformation. We can’t wait for you to come, see, and participate!     As we move forward, our confidence in God's faithfulness remains unwavering. Together, with God’s leading, we can transform cycles of brokenness, crime, and addiction into new rhythms of individuals and their families flourishing. When lives that are off track experience restoration, we ALL win!

William Scarpitti has been a part of JUMPSTART for nearly ten years. He was a clerk in the Chaplain’s office and served as a table leader following his completion of the inside program. When William was released in December after almost seventeen years spent behind bars, he thought his next move would be to live in a local pastor’s home. However, God had greater plans in mind for William. Once William arrived at the home for the JUMPSTART Outside Program, he knew without a doubt that he was where he was supposed to be. When he looked around, he realized he knew every single person that was there with him. To him, “JUMPSTART is family; it is a community. It is accountability and responsibility. I wish everyone in the same situation I was in knew this and could experience the love that JUMPSTART and Christ have to offer.” William was present one Sunday morning when Cary Sanders, CEO of JUMPSTART SC, delivered a message to the congregation of Second Presbyterian Church. William felt the importance of what Sanders communicated truly emphasized how valuable community engagement is in the lives of returning citizens. Sanders said, “People are going to get out of prison, and they will be on the same streets and in the same stores and restaurants as those in the community. If there is a community in place to welcome those re-entering society, not only will the community be a better place, but the revolving door of a life of crime and days in a cell can come to an end.” William believes that the heart of JUMPSTART revolves around the mission-oriented volunteers, staff members, and community who step in and invest in the lives of JUMPSTART participants. William’s goals center around getting stabilized as an individual and reinitiating a relationship with his daughter, whom he has not seen since she was three years old. His motivation to finish JUMPSTART’s program is not only driven by these goals, but from his previous, independent efforts that did not work. He understands the power of community and accountability in accomplishing what God has in store for him. William hopes to remain involved with JUMPSTART through JUMPSTART’s landscaping enterprise and continue to give back to the organization and people that have so greatly impacted his life. As William puts it himself: “Everyone is in my corner. They have all played a role in supporting me and my decision to continue with JUMPSTART. Looking back, I can see where God has been laying bricks all along the way. Back then, I had no idea what I was doing as I walked His path, but now, I can see the perfect road ahead.”

Toby Fleming is the Director of Pastoral Care here at JUMPSTART SC. Take a look into Toby’s role and how he is making a positive impact on participants through shepherding, leadership, and connection.

After years of substance abuse, Tom is now celebrating 27 years free from drug addiction. He commemorates this achievement by dedicating his time to serving others and sharing the love of Christ. Embodying Mark 10:45, Tom’s desire to serve provides him with a purpose that far surpasses his previous struggles before his incarceration. Tom first joined JUMPSTART knowing he needed comprehensive support and continuous encouragement to prevent a relapse into addiction upon his release. Initially, Tom planned to return home to care for his mother after completing JUMPSTART’s inside program. However, he realized that he needed to stay away from his hometown for a few years post-release to learn how to live as a Christian after incarceration. When Tom shared his new plan with his mother, she agreed that he should do whatever necessary to regain his footing before returning home. Tom not only completed the inside program but also enjoyed it so much that he served as a table leader for two years following his graduation. Although rewarding, Tom found this role to be the most challenging part of his journey with JUMPSTART. He cared deeply for his peers and wanted them to fully benefit from their participation in the program. By holding his group members accountable, he aimed to ensure their hard work did not go unnoticed. His dedication was affirmed when the mother of a man Tom mentored personally thanked him for helping her son stay out of trouble and grow closer to God. Moments like these validate Tom’s purpose and fuel his passion for serving others. In June of 2023, Tom completed his sentence and joined JUMPSTART’s transitional program. With this second chance, he set three distinct goals for himself. The most important one is to serve Jesus Christ in everything he does. His second and third goals focus on his passion for caring for his family and assisting the elderly. Tom often mowed lawns for others, and with the money he earned, he would buy fresh fruit and deliver it to a nearby nursing home. Despite having little to his name, he was eager to serve others and help them see God’s love. Tom graduated from JUMPSTART’s transitional program in May 2024 and is returning to Detroit, Michigan, to be closer to his family. Before Tom’s mother passed away several months ago, he had the chance to visit her. She told him she could see he was a changed man and expressed her pride in him. This visit reassured him that he was ready to graduate from the transitional program and return home to support his elderly family members who need him. We have no doubt that Tom will continue to serve others well as he takes the next step in his journey."

As the associate warden at Ridgeland Correctional, a medium-security prison in South Carolina, Bailey has dedicated his life to helping the incarcerated turn their lives around. This year, he celebrates an impressive 40 years as a criminal justice professional, and his journey is nothing short of remarkable. From star athlete to dedicated public servant, Bailey's story is one of perseverance and determination. In 10th grade, he began excelling in both sports and education, eventually earning a full scholarship to play running back at Alcorn State University. One of his proudest moments was telling his mom that he had earned a full ride to college. After college, Bailey worked in the Department of Youth Services, then the Department of Mental Health for nine years, and then the Federal Bureau of Prisons for 21 years before retiring. But retirement didn't last long. Bailey knew he had more to give and wanted to use his energy and experience to make a difference in the world. One of his greatest rewards is seeing people get their lives back on track after incarceration. He loves to share the story of a JUMPSTART SC participant who, after being released during COVID, struggled to find a job and decided to start his own handyman service. Bailey recently saw him working hard on a job site and couldn't have been prouder. JUMPSTART SC is a program that helps prepare inmates for reentry by providing them with life skills, education, and mentoring. Bailey regularly goes above and beyond the call of duty to help the men at Ridgeland participate in JUMPSTART SC and other programs designed to prepare them for their future after incarceration. Even when prison staff shortages make it challenging to get participants to class, Bailey doesn't let that stand in the way. He'll head to the dorms to assist his colleagues with security and ensure the men have the opportunity to participate in class, even though it's not in his job description. When asked why he goes above and beyond, Bailey responds, "95% of the incarcerated are going to be released, so I see it as my personal mission to ensure that we work toward safety for society and redemption for individuals." Bailey leads by example, treating everyone with respect, compassion, and professionalism. He’s a role model for the men by being humble, honest, and hardworking. Bailey is part of a larger movement of criminal justice professionals working hard to keep our communities safe while providing transformational opportunities to incarcerated individuals who want to turn their lives around. One of the most successful and innovative programs in this movement is JUMPSTART SC Prison Ministry, which operates in 19 prisons across South Carolina. JUMPSTART SC has a proven track record of reducing recidivism, increasing employment, and helping men and women build a brighter future. JUMPSTART SC offers a comprehensive, integrated approach to reentry, consisting of two phases: in-prison programming, and a residential reentry program. In the in-prison program, men and women learn how to address the issues that led to their incarceration, discover God's purpose for their lives, and prepare for re-entry. Volunteers from communicates across the state attend classes weekly to offer encouragement and guidance. Upon release, those who have completed JUMPSTART’s inside program are eligible for a holistic residential program that includes housing, transportation, employment, mentoring, and life skills classes. We asked Bailey what he would say to everyone who was incarcerated if he only had a minute to share. He was quick with his answer, “A setback is a setup for a great comeback if you will maximize your time and make the most of the opportunities in front of you.” After this we asked, what would you say to someone considering a career in the criminal justice field, he responded, “This is a career that keeps on giving. Over the past forty years, I’ve earned a good living. But more important than that, I’ve got to help people move past their mistakes and this is not only a win for them and their family, but for all of society. Aubray Bailey is an inspiration to many, both inside and outside the prison walls. He's a testament to the power of redemption and the belief that everyone is greater than the sum of their mistakes. He's a leader who leads with both his head and his heart, and he's a criminal justice professional with an unwavering passion for redemption. Learn More About JUMSPTART SC in this two-minute video:

Do you want to be known as a difference-maker? Be like Dan. Dan is someone everyone would love to have as a friend . Dan's title doesn't include "executive". His role doesn't command a large salary. He's never going to be on Forbes' cover. But you'd still like to have him on your team or as your friend. Dan is a difference-maker on JUMPSTART SC's staff team. Dan coordinates housing and transportation for those transitioning back into the community from incarceration. His tasks aren't rocket science. Fueling Up. Planning routes. Vehicle inspections. Preventative maintenance. Nothing glamorous or complicated. But vitally important. Dan is a difference-make on our team. He's more than a driver. While driving he's dishing out doses of encouragement. He's a friend to the weary worker who's had a challenging day. He's a comforter to the one heading to the doctor scared of the waiting test results. He's a coach to the ones having trouble sticking to their goals. He's a listening ear and when invited to share, he's full of wisdom. Yes, he's significantly more than a transportation coordinator. He's a difference-maker. He doesn’t see those he serves as ex-cons. He sees them for who they are becoming. He sees sons and daughters. He sees their dignity. He sees their worth. As an alum of JUMPSTART SC, he's living proof that those who've been incarcerated can have a future greater than their past in Christ, and be a difference-maker in the lives of others. Want to be a difference maker in the lives of the incarcerated and those coming out of incarceration? Consider our volunteer and giving opportunities.

As you watch the video, please prayerfully consider how you might get involved with serving or giving to support life transformation.

Through tears a mom can administer Narcan to her son when he overdoses... But she can't give him life. Anthony grew up in a good Christian family. He had family support. A solid foundation. Loving care. None of his family used drugs or participated in illicit activities. But beginning in junior high, he hung out with the wrong crowd. It started with smoking weed and drinking. That grew into opioids. Soon came heroin, meth, and fentanyl. For six years, he used every single day. He was 100% devoted to getting high. Drugs were his master. He ruined relationships with his family and friends. Stealing – doing whatever necessary to get high. Overdosed five times. The last time? His mom found his in the floor. She had to administer Narcan to keep him alive. Hopelessness. Despair. Tears. He was rescued from complete self-destruction when arrested. Jesus introduced Himself. He gave the gifts of freedom. Freedom From Addiction. From Shame. From Death. From Guilt. In JUMPSTART, while incarcerated, he encountered love, support, and accountability. He learned about God’s purpose for his life and how to live for Him. Now, Anthony is working instead of stealing. Building instead of destroying. Giving instead of taking. He's a faithful member at Hope Point Church. Back involved in the lives of his family. He and his mom are close. She's never been more proud. Anthony's greatest hope for his future? To be an example to his family and others of Christ's power. To get married and have a family. To teach his kids to love the Lord. To help others know Christ alone is the One who conquers death with life.

We all have stories, some messier and more intriguing than others. Over the past ten years, my wild roller-coaster from being a prisoner to a husband, father, and CEO, all while earning a doctorate has been a worthwhile, and quite often, wild adventure. I’ve had a lot to learn, and still feel like I’m in first grade in the school of life. Here are a few of the lessons I’m thinking about today that I’ve learned along the way. I share in hopes that the lessons will be helpful to someone – maybe even to you. 1. Breaking Chains: Overcoming the Disease to Please Some find themselves in literal prison cells, ensnared in compromising situations, or overcommitted and exhausted, all because they couldn't break free from the insidious need to please. Saying 'no' isn't just about setting boundaries; it's about unlocking true freedom. By learning to say no without guilt, you not only protect your health but also have more time to focus on what matters most to you and those you love. Annihilating the disease to please ensures your choices are genuinely yours and not dictated by the whims of others. Often in one’s quest for recognition and acceptance, we will say yes to people and commitments that don’t advance us in the mission God has for us. Being overcommitted drains our energy and keeps us from focusing on what matters most. I’m often asked to meet with people or travel to speak, and it’s been hard learning which opportunities to accept and which to decline. I don’t always get it right, I’m sure. Maybe I have missed out on a million-dollar opportunity…too bad. I’m more concerned with not missing out on loving my wife well and being home as often as possible while my children are growing up. So I consider opportunities carefully, make a decision in light of what matters most, and move on. Remember, every 'yes' you give out is an investment of your limited, finite life. Prioritize what truly matters. By wisely choosing where and with whom you spend your time, you protect your most valuable asset and ensure you have the energy to consistently move toward your purpose. Guard your time, align it with God’s intentions for you, and ensure every moment propels you forward. 2. Ditch the Candy, Hold Out for the Steak Maybe I should’ve played golf in my free time and built more professional relationships rather than spending time earning a doctorate. Maybe not. Only time will tell if earning a doctorate while working full-time was the right thing to do in my particular situation. My guess is that it has given me some additional credibility post-incarceration. It has opened doors of opportunity for me. I don’t know what you could achieve that would further develop your competency in the specific mission you’re assigned, but I do know you will likely have to sacrifice to flourish. People and organizations that are world-class don’t just fall into that category. They have to reject passivity and laziness daily and do hard things to achieve great outcomes. If you want to soar with the eagles, you'll often have to pass up on the chicken feed. Greatness demands you look beyond today's craving. 3. Nuke Self-Destructive Demons Let's cut to the chase: we're all flawed. Do you have secrets or struggle with destructive thoughts or behaviors? Sure you do. Everyone does. Don’t allow knowing the worst about yourself to cause you to treat yourself poorly or settle for less than God’s best in your life. Negative self-talk and/or destructive behaviors are often the greatest battles anyone ever fights. There are cheat codes for these inner demons. Christ has the cure for this internal disease called sin. Learn to apply it daily – or more like every minute. And even in the midst of the battle, remember there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. So, if you are living in fear, shame, and/or self-condemnation – you need to come to grips with whether you believe Jesus is sufficient or not. You need to believe Him even in the midst of the battle. If you don’t know Him and would like to meet Him, I’d be happy to make the introduction. Got a battle you can’t seem to win? Go see a professional. They’ve heard it all before – and probably worse – and if they are any good – they will be able to help you or connect you with someone who is better suited for your particular strain of iniquity. If you could have fixed what your struggle is by yourself, you would have done so already – so humble yourself and get help – the world needs what the best version of you has to offer. 4. Choose Your Tribe with Wisdom – Or Pay the Price Biblical wisdom teaches and social science research confirms that "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." This isn't just poetic; it's practical. Surrounding yourself with individuals who challenge and inspire is life-changing. On the flip side, the wrong company will keep you from achieving your potential and often lead you into difficulties. Every friend leaves a mark; it's up to you whether it's a polish or a scar. As a craftsman is only as good as his tools, you're only as sharp, focused, and resilient as the company you keep. In prison, most laughed, and rather loudly, when I dreamed out loud that I might go to college after prison. Only had a GED at the time. I almost didn’t even take a first step because of their toxic negativity. At university, while some probably well-intentioned but probably also holier-than-thou types avoided me after learning my story, others actively encouraged me to continue fighting the good fight. This encouragement was fuel in my tank. Choose your influencers wisely. Your life is at stake. 5. Deciphering Truth in a World of Noise Everyone has an opinion, and they are often wrong. So are you. Be humble and willing to pivot. Ever heard the saying, "A little knowledge is a dangerous thing"? Throughout history, we're reminded that not all advice, even when well-intentioned, is golden. While everyone has an opinion, it's essential to sift through the noise and discern what’s merely someone’s opinion and what’s wisdom in a particular situation. What worked for someone else may not work for you – or it may be exactly what you need. Be willing to listen – but free from the pressure to conform to whatever they believe is best. History is replete with examples of people who had to defy conventional wisdom and the opinions of others to make discoveries and world-changing inventions. If I had to give a dollar for every well-intentioned but bad piece of advice I’ve heard, I’d be destitute, and I wouldn’t be where I am today. We exist in a world of ideas and choices we make from those ideas. To have a life of peace, joy, and contentment, the true treasures in my experience, we all must learn to decipher between what is true and what is not. Remember, sailing through life's waters using a faulty compass can lead you off course and even shipwreck your journey. Stay open to wisdom, especially from God’s Word, friends, mentors, and family members who have your best interest at heart but be alert and wise. Knowing when to adjust your sails can be the difference between smooth sailing and being lost at sea. Dr. Cary Sanders CEO JUMPSTART SC