[Rob]

Hello everyone,

The world can be a scary place. 2016 has seen turmoil spread right across the world, from political crises, to violence, hatred and division, these things seem much closer to home now than we'd like. From everything that's been happening this may seem like a dreadful and shocking year! Yet in winter when the trees are bare and hope is fading, we must remember that even the tiniest seed can flourish in spring.

Change and uncertainty can feel discomforting, but with change comes growth as well. Like seeds we too are growing as we transition through our lives. For many of you that change is into adulthood or the constant search for belonging, things that seem far harder and much scarier in the world we currently live in!

More than ever now it is important for us to stand strong. When you stand united with your family, your friends, your communities and your own beliefs we all become stronger and more connected together. And suddenly that change seems easier to bear, whether that change is through difficulties in your own lives or in the chaotic world around us.

We hope in 2017 you will continue to reach out to others and build links, to find your own path and help others find theirs. But we also hope you will stay true to who you are in spite of the changes, have fun and enjoy life! Why not set yourself a challenge to embrace change, and turn the things that come your way into positives, whatever they may be? Stand tall and speak out for the injustices you see and be heard over the growing turbulence. The trees that grow the strongest roots weather the storm.

Have a great Christmas and a happy New Year!

TeenHelp.