Hope on the Street

Funny how so many people look forward to the New Year and want to leave the old one behind. At the same time there is a cynicism that anything will ever change, in the world and if they are honest in themselves. It has been said that cynicism is a type of protection and defence against disappointment. How is it for  you? Will you approach this New Year with hope and expectation or will the past hurts and pain hold you back? One of the reasons I hold on to my faith is the promise of new beginnings, that there is a plan for our lives and a path to follow. What if there is a hope of breaking free and finding a life of fullness in 2012? I’m not just talking about the old resolutions, you know, losing weight, getting more exercise or being nicer to the irritating person at work(well at least trying to). This is the deep stuff most of us avoid, deciding to explore our spirituality, why we are here and what’s life all about. Its looking at who we really are, to the core and taking God seriously. Stuff we may have heard when a kid at school or through a friend but dismissed because we were too busy or it seemed wet or far fetched. Well if you are like me maybe you have got to the point in life when you are thinking what have I got to lose. If that’s you and you want to know more contact us and we can give some tips of what to read or watch to make a first step. If you are worried you will be committed to something or organisation, don’t worry there will be no follow up call or any guilt trip. I am just keen to give anyone who wants the chance to really hear and understand what Jesus said and did. Check it out and let me know if you want me to post stuff on this site, Twitter or Facebook.

Hope Counselling web site click here

For those looking for someone to talk to, for help with emotional difficulties. Individual and couple counselling.Colin Johnson has many years counselling and pastoral experience and holds a  Diploma in integrative counselling. He is a member if the counselling bodies BACP and ACC and follows their ethical guidelines. Location- South Bedfordshire,  Leighton Buzzard or Dunstable.

‘Most of the time I don’t have much fun. The rest of the time I don’t have any fun at all’,  Woody Allen

So much dark news in the world currently but never mind Christmas is looming large. My doesn’t it seem to come round faster each year!  For many it is a time of hope. What about you- are you looking forward to the festivities? No? …I guess you aren’t alone! The holiday season prompts some very  mixed reactions – some say it’s too commercial these days and that it’s lost its special flavour, for others Christmas can be a lonely time with sad memories of loved ones gone, for a few it is humbug and so to be ignored altogether. But there are still those for whom Christmas is special, who remember the reason for the season is Christ himself- the baby in the manger.

How about you, what are your feelings as you listen to that interminable High Street Christmas shopping music?

If you are one of those who struggles at this time of year, don’t struggle alone. Speak to someone or join a group to make friends and find support. Many churches, including ours offer groups you can join, groups for different ages and interests. Sometimes if the negative thoughts are ongoing and overwhelm think of contacting a counsellor for professional help.

For those who have faith  or wish to find a faith that really helps through life’s storms- If God too distant, unreal, try finding the face of  God through Christ. His promise of the season is the peace and joy inside that no amount of gifts and things can give. What ever your feelings now, find hope this Christmas and for the New Year.
Happy Christmas and a hopeful New Year.