Now then...I can finally sit down after a crazy fresher's fortnight back at Ciren...
LWEYP... the reason why I put myself through sweat and chaffing for a full 45 miles...
The Lower Wharfe Ecumenical Youth Project is a charity where LOVE is the one theme and the one rule is to love everyone. As corny and as frustratingly cheesy it is, its a lot easier to smile and be happy... than to waste energy on negativity.
My mother has a heart for others, she has a passion for children and young adults and adults, she has a passion for the broken and a serious dedication for those who need a shoulder. She is a rock for many.
Many moons and visions ago; she decided to set up a youth project that is basically a huge comfortable and warm arm chair to people. Everyone is wanted, everyone is accepted, everyone is needed, everyone is vital. Her main vision of the whole project is that people, in this negative, technology driven world, feel that they matter and make a difference.
Maybe a bit like Sainsbury's.. although its 'feel' as opposed to 'taste'...
The day to day work is run by youth workers. The youth workers run different clubs at schools around Tadcaster and have different Christian groups for those interested. There are camps during the summer and a live nativity at Christmas time...
During my second ('cause I'm lazy and hate decision making) gap year - I spent a year working for the project. This involved, to name a few jobs; maning the emails, planning a weekend away, being accountable to the girls at the Monday club - CUBE - but also having eyes at the back of my head to look out for people who lacked in love. Lacked in motivation and hugs. I doubt I could have had a more rewarding time.
A smile means a lot. Even if you know the person is already loved and happy... a smile can still change their day.
I have no idea what it is about the whole showing teeth thing... or maybe when you make your mouth into the shape of a half-moon, maybe we're vampires...
The long and short of it... Long being the bike ride, and short being the time it takes to smile (VOM!), this charity couldn't be more positive and exciting.
Every week I get different stories, all motivating and inspiring.
So... cheers big dog, Jesus, for making such a cool project work wonders...
Yours, enthusiastically...
X
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