Last year, sports and dance coach Ali Park shared a powerful story of hope with one of his students, which led to this young girl in crisis taking her first step toward healing. This is a reminder that even one short and simple message of encouragement can make all the difference in another person's life.
Did you know that one-third of 16-24 year-olds suffer from anxiety? And that one fifth of young people self harm? Imagine what just a little bit of encouragement could do for a young person who is desperate to feel valued and seen.
One of KICK’s coaches, Ali Park, has spent the past six months working with a girl in year 11 who has been self-harming and punching walls. Just a couple of weeks ago was the first time he saw her without any blood or razor marks from the previous week. When Ali remarked on this, the girl said it was due to a conversation they had had about self-confidence in which Ali encouraged her to realise how special she is to this world and to her family. It’s such a simple conversation to have, yet so impactful!
In every interaction, whether you’re a charity or an individual, you have the opportunity to sow seeds of love, faith and hope that can truly change the world. The gift of encouragement is one of the most powerful ways to show generosity to someone who needs to know they’re loved. Together we can turn hopelessness into hope for the future and joy in the present.
Joe Lowther, KICK
Reflect
"We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labour prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ". 1 Thessalonians 1:3 (NIV)
Prayer
"Father, we pray for those who are struggling with self-worth and inner battles, that they may come to see their immense value and your deep love for them. We ask you to strengthen and guide the people who walk alongside them with wisdom, patience, and compassion. We pray for healing, hope and transformation for anyone feeling broken, and for opportunities to speak life and encouragement into their journey. Amen."
Act
Acts for you to consider today:
| Tell someone how wonderful you think they are by placing re-affirming messages on post-it notes around your home or office. | ||
| Inscribe an affirming note in a book and give it to someone you think needs encouragement. | ||
| Ask friends and family members to record and share a short message saying what they think is wonderful about a person you mutually know and adore. |
Share
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About KICK
KICK’s mission is to transform young people's lives, with God's love, through sport and support. They do this through values driven physical education, street dance, mentoring, chaplaincy in schools and community KICK Academies. Their mission is for young people to have a hope for the future and a joy in the present.
