Wonder

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 she 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 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.

Prayer:

Pray for those who are struggling with self-worth and inner battles, that they may come to see their immense value and God’s deep love for them. Ask God to strengthen and guide the people who walk alongside them giving them wisdom, patience, and compassion. Pray for healing, hope, and transformation for anyone feeling broken, and for opportunities to speak life and encouragement into their journey.

Take a 40acts challenge today:

1. Place re-affirming messages on post-it notes on surfaces around your home/office, e.g., mirrors/fridges, to tell someone how wonderful you think they are.
2. Inscribe a note in a book on affirmation and give it to someone you think needs it.
3. Ask friends and family to record a short message about what they think is wonderful about a person you mutually know and adore. Either forward these to that person or edit them into a video and send it their way.