Hitchin youth charity PHASE send Christmas message to our community of Nub News readers

PHASE is a small Hitchin charity with a big mission – to work alongside young people to promote their wellbeing and resilience.

PHASE is an organisation all about young people and helping live out the best version of themselves.

PHASE strongly believe that when children are supported early it is possible to prevent more serious emotional and mental health issues developing.

Read on for a Christmas message from PHASE's acclaimed director Kieran Murphy to our community of Nub News readers across North Herts

As the festive season approaches, it is easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of decorations, gifts, and gatherings. In the midst of the hustle and bustle, it's crucial to pause and reflect on the true essence of Christmas—a time for appreciation and gratitude. 

Christmas is more than just a date on the calendar; it's a season that brings warmth to our hearts and a reminder to be grateful for the people and blessings in our lives. In the bustling world we live in, taking a moment to appreciate the simple joys can be a powerful act of mindfulness.

One of the most beautiful aspects of Christmas is the spirit of giving. As we exchange presents with our loved ones, it's not just about the material gifts but the thought and love behind them. In a world that often moves too fast, these moments of genuine connection become the anchors that ground us. 

Consider the twinkling lights that decorate houses and streets, illuminating the darkness. Each light represents a source of joy, a reason to be thankful. In a similar way, the people in our lives, each with their unique brightness, contribute to the tapestry of our existence. Take a moment to appreciate the diversity of lights that make your life shine. 

Christmas is also a time for reflection—a chance to look back on the year and acknowledge both the highs and lows. It's easy to focus on what went wrong or what could have been better, but amidst the challenges, there are lessons and growth. Embrace the journey, appreciate the resilience within you, and be grateful for the strength that carried you through.

The Christmas season often reunites families and friends, creating moments of togetherness that are precious and fleeting. In the laughter around the dinner table and the warmth of shared stories, find gratitude for the bonds that make life richer. Not everyone has the privilege of being surrounded by loved ones, so cherish these moments and the people who make them special.

As we revel in the joy of Christmas, let's also spare a thought for those who may be going through difficult times.

Acts of kindness, no matter how small, can make a significant impact.

Whether it's donating to a charity (checkout Project Hope if you want to make double the difference), volunteering, or simply offering a kind word to someone in need, the spirit of Christmas is greatest when shared with those less fortunate.

The story of Christmas, rooted in the Christian faith, centres around the birth of a child—a symbol of new beginnings and the promise of salvation; a universal symbol of hope and renewal. The image of a humble manger holding the hope of the world resonates with people of diverse backgrounds, offering a message that goes beyond the religious narrative. 

Christmas is a reminder that, despite the challenges we face, there is always something to be grateful for, there is always hope. It invites us to look beyond the surface of presents and decorations, encouraging us to find gratitude in the intangible moments that make life truly meaningful.

So, as the Christmas season unfolds, let gratitude, joy and hope be ever present in your celebrations—a gift that keeps on giving long after the decorations are put away.

Kieran Murphy, PHASE director

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 Find out more about Hitchin youth charity PHASE's Project Hope campaign aiming to raise £15,000 to provide vital support for young people