As we edge ever nearer to our YourSpace AGM, on Monday 20th June, see Notice Board for more info, I have been thinking about what the Group means to me.
I have been with YourSpace from the beginning, so I can liken my emotional wellbeing to how I was then to how I am today. What has the Group done for me and what I have done for myself? I think the Group has influenced my development as a person greatly and has given me the strength to keep going. My emotional well being has definitely improved for the better.
The guys who come along to our meetings are my inspiration. I gain so much insight and knowledge from them. The Group has its ups and downs, sometimes the meetings are challenging, sometimes they are joyous, sad, frustrating, informative.... However, as with all communities, through the difficult times when things just seem so dark, at the core of that suffering is hope.
As a Group we care, as an individual I care, even though that light may not shine through too brightly sometimes, it's there and it's there in abundance. At times we need to step away from a situation to see it more clearly. When we are in the thick of it the intensity of the moment can be too dazzling, too busy, too much to take in all at once. Moving away can give more clarity and ultimately make sense.
I think the stuff I've learned, over the past 4 years has developed me into being a more enlightened person. I have realised who I am and like who I've become. I accept I will always have challenges to face, but feel much more confident in facing them. It is with much trepidation that I hope the chaps who pass through our YourSpace community will also gain a better understanding of themselves and receive the support, care, hope they deserve.
Hope the coming weeks are good to you all!
Ruth :-)