Wednesday, October 11, 2006


This swept on to my desktop last night to bring me a a deep breath of fresh air .......

you are beautiful

When I was 19 i wrote to a guy called Pip Wilson to ask if he had any opportunities for me to train as a youth worker at Romford YMCA. Pip sent me a letter back saying that unfortunatley he hadn't got anything appropriate at the time and wished me well as I explored other opportunities. He enclosed a pink card with a finger print on it entitled 'Unique' it had some words on it that had a massive impact on me. before you go any further, i would recommend that you stop and read it for yourself .... Unique .

About a year ago I discovered Pips blog and have become a regular visitor. He writes many variations on this theme and all are tremendously powerful.

A year ago he wrote a poem which I read to some young people I know, many of whom exist on the edges of mainstream society, I will never forget what happened next, SILENCE, some wiped their eyes, covering up their tears others looked shocked - all were affected. I send this poem to young people when I think they need to hear it - i do this over and over again, I read it in church to adults and the same thing happens.
I read it to the same young people last week, a year on and they are still struggling with it - I asked what would it take for you to believe it? some replied - "If someone we trusted told us" the problem is that they don't trust many people.


I have now concluded that these words (and words like it) are one of the most effective youth work tools I have. Thanks Pip - you are an inspiration.
From:: ben's blog http://benbell.typepad.com/
......... Golden ..................



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