"Fear is the main source of superstition, and one of the main sources of cruelty. To conquer fear is the beginning of wisdom, in the pursuit of truth as in the endeavour after a worthy manner of life." - Bertrand Russell

I think there were a few breakthroughs today. Not “the big one,” but I take pride in all victories.

Jacob opened up about what happened between him and his girlfriend.

I pushed back.

To have these boys tell me their stories and simply respond “okay, thank you for sharing,” would accomplish nothing. There would be no connections made, no light bulbs going off, no gripping who they were, so I push them back.

I pushed a lot of Jacob’s buttons today and made him furious… the point was, as I think he figured out, that despite how mad I made him, he wasn’t going to hit me. And it’s not about the fact that I’m his counselor, or that he’s required to be here, it has to do with the simple fact that he’s not trying to control my life. It has to do with the fear of loosing that person, that control, and grasping for ways that allow you to maintain them.

Today we discussed the three C’s: Compromise, Communication, and Control.

Better yet, today Jacob admitted to being afraid.