By RTF Editor Abbie Miller

As soon as I walked into the youth room, I knew.

There was a certain tension in the air. Deep lines creased the foreheads and lips of our leaders. The youth pastor was pacing like a caged, nervous, blushing animal. When we all sat down, we realized we were going to be talking about sex. Ugh. In .0004 seconds, exactly 100% of the people in the room wanted to be anywhere else. (more…)

by Staff Writer Arianna Zander

Sweetness dripped off her words like rain, and at each sentence, I felt my hands clench. I knew what she did to my family. The rumors she’d spread, the accusations, the blackmail. “I was only trying to help,” she said, “it was my Christian duty.” Maybe she actually thought that. Or maybe it was just another lie. (more…)

By Guest Writer Ashli Roussel

“You are a liar.”

Although I would normally never encourage anyone to speak these words, there is an exception to that rule when it comes to one thing: an eating disorder. (more…)

Anyone who’s ever experienced bullying via the internet knows it can go from “joking” to serious within minutes. This month, we’ll be hearing and reading some real-life stories from people who have experienced cyber-bullying firsthand.

What do you think about it? Do you know anyone who’s been victimized by it? Have you been victimized by it? Have you been the bully?

And what can you do about it?

Click here to watch the video stories of 8 teens.

Leave your thoughts/experiences in the comments below.

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This is a safe place. You can feel free to post anonymously. If you are being bullied and need help immediately, talk to your parents or a trustworthy adult. You do not need to suffer in silence.

If you just want to talk or need some advice, please email us at realteenfaith@gmail.com. We’re always here to listen and help.

photo credit

By Staff Writer Jennifer Grimes

The word change brings a lot of random thoughts to my mind. The change I have in my wallet, for instance.

I don’t care much about it.

I rarely use change unless I’m getting something out of a vending machine, which is next to never. I usually pay with some crisp bills and then dump whatever the cashier hands back into my already accumulated abyss of change. When my wallet gets full, I collect change on my desk or bookshelf in a metal bucket. (more…)

by Staff Writer Shannon Meiers

Our society seems to put an unprecedented amount of value on the dollar. Some folks may think that money can buy happiness. It’s actually quite the opposite.

God has given each of us talents. But our fulfillment doesn’t come from what we do – it’s how we use it to glorify God. (more…)

by Editor Halee Matthews

Still bored, huh? Don’t worry, I’ve got more ideas.

6. Tutor. Even though school is out, some parents are trying to help their kids work on their math skills or iron out the wrinkles in their grammar. Whatever the case, pick a subject you’re good at and make good grades in, and let families know you’re willing to do a little tutoring. Just keep it fun and interactive. Then both the kids and parents will appreciate your skills. (more…)

by Editor Halee Matthews

It’s summer (just in case you missed the blinding sun and scorching heat). And now that you’re over the “woo hoo, no school” phase, you might find yourself a little bored. (Unless you’re in summer school, in which case, you have my sympathy.)

If you find yourself staring up at the ceiling, debating how to fill your time, here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Volunteer. Great causes are always looking for people to help them out. You could go with a longer term commitment, like several weeks, or just a few days; most organizations are flexible. (more…)