A Gap In The Wall

Hope is a powerful thing.

Many of the people who come through YMCA’s doors have experienced disappointment, instability, or circumstances that have left them feeling stuck. When hope has been knocked back time and again, it can be hard to believe that things can change.

I once spent time with a young resident who had become discouraged about his future. Family relationships had broken down, his plans for a career had stalled, and he struggled to see a way forward. One day, while chatting over some Lego, I asked him to build a model representing his life.

He built a square wall with a single brick trapped in the middle. “That’s me,” he said. “I feel stuck.” But as I looked closer, I noticed a small gap in one corner of the wall. When I asked about it, he paused and replied, “I think that’s hope.”

At YMCA, we have the privilege of helping create that gap. Through safe accommodation, supportive relationships, education, youth work, childcare, sport, and countless everyday interactions, we help people see that there can be a way forward.

As Proverbs 23:18 reminds us: “There is surely a future hope for you.”

Whatever your role at YMCA, what you do matters. Every act of kindness, every decision, and every conversation can help create space for hope to grow.

Thought for today: How might you help bring hope to someone this week?

Linsey Wildsmith
Head of Christian Mission