This time last year the brother of a close friend of mine tragically lost his life to suicide. Max Windle was an incredible young man who will forever be loved & treasured by those who knew him. His family have since set up a trust in his memory - The Max Windle Memorial Trust (MWMT - registered charity number 1194885) - which supports the vital work of several UK mental health charities, particularly those directed at helping children & young adults with depression and anxiety. This month I’m going to be hosting a raffle to fundraise for the MWMT. I am raffling off 10 individual felt pieces, each of which symbolises important qualities & strengths that we all possess but can be quick to doubt. They aim to provide a little hope, inspiration and encouragement - and hopefully a smile too! Neither the amount donated nor the number of donations dictate the number of entries as entries are limited to one per person. Anyone is able to donate however, the raffle is only open to those with a UK address. All donations will go directly to the MWMT. Entries will close (but the link to donate will remain open!) at 18:00 GMT on Monday 31st January and the 10 winners will be drawn & announced that same evening. 

The pieces each come with a tag describing what they symbolise and include: 

Acorn pair: The acorns symbolise growth, potential & strength. Acorns may only be tiny but they hold the seeds to towering oak trees. The acorn is a reminder that you are capable, brave & significant even when you feel like you’re not. It encourages you never to underestimate just how much you matter or how great your impact on those around you.

Lotus flower: The lotus symbolises resilience & adaptability. Although dainty in appearance, this flower is tough - withstanding the strongest of storms and most forceful winds; it grows through thick muddy waters to blossom above the water’s surface. It’s a reminder that that each of us is shaped but not defined by our pasts - journeys of successes and struggles that grow our resilience and allow us to overcome the challenges we face. No matter how afraid, fragile, or weary you may feel, the lotus jserves as a reminder that you have the strength to keep going.

Borage (star) flower: The borage flower symbolises bravery and courage. Given to Roman soldiers as a marker of valour, it encourages us to acknowledge our ability to overcome challenges. It reminds us not that we are fearless but that our fears can be faced -  for courage is not to do something without fear but to act it in spite of it. It’s a reminder than no matter the “what-ifs”, you can and you will make it through. 

Leaf: The leaf symbolises life and renewal. It’s a reminder that with every season you are growing and evolving. That no matter where you have been, you are free to begin again and to look forwards with hope and expectation. 

Sun & Cloud: The sun and cloud symbolise hope and perseverance. They’re a reminder to hold on, even in midst of your darkest and most difficult moments, because just as the sun breaks through the clouds, the light can & will shine again. 

Lion: The lion symbolises courage, strength, & loyalty. Known as the dominant force in the African bush, the lion bravely puts their life on the line to defend their pride. Just as the lion knows and draws on their strength to overcome obstacles, you too have the courage and strength to triumph over the challenges you face.  

Penguin: The penguin symbolises resilience & strength. Penguins withstand the harshest winters and most brutal conditions, traveling miles over months just to provide for their young. The penguin is an example of determination - encouraging you to expect but embrace struggle - shaping who you are and building your tenacity. It’s a reminder that courage can be found in the smallest of things and that with each step forward, you will become stronger. 

Bear: The bear is a symbol of protection & bravery. Its mighty physical presence is as representation of its strength and a reminder that within us all there is courage and resilience. Fiercely determined, the bear serves to remind you that you are brave & mighty even when you feel like you’re not. 

Owl: The owl symbolises wisdom and understanding. Owls use their heightened senses to monitor their surroundings - exercising patience and intuition to keep themselves safe & hunt their prey. The owl demonstrates the power of listening. It’s a reminder that it takes time and patience to form an understanding of different situations & of other people, and that we are all on our own journeys doing what’s right for us when it’s right for us.

Dolphin: The dolphin symbolises empathy, compassion & altruism. Dolphins support injured animals (including humans!) - pushing them to the surface so they can breath - and they do so regardless of threat to their own safety. The dolphin shows us the importance on non-judgement and the power of kindness - reminding us that we are all in this together and all deserving of love & compassion.