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Stockton: Ragworth Barber Shop offers haircuts to the homeless

A barber is spreading festive cheer by offering free haircuts to homeless people in Teesside. The transformations are under way in the barbers’ chairs at Stockton’s Ragworth Barber Shop this winter. Owner Mohammed Niromande said the offer was a thank you to the community which helped him after he arrived as a refugee 13 years ago. “It’s nice to be nice,” he said. “They need my help now and one day, I might need theirs.” Mr Niromande, who came to the UK as a Kurdish refugee, opened his barber shop three months ago. The 35-year-old has already welcomed several homeless men for a shave and a hair cut, and as word of mouth spreads, he hopes to welcome many more throughout the winter. ‘My responsibility’ It was his way, he said, of supporting his adopted community. “I feel like it’s my responsibility to help the people in this country however I can, because this country has done so much to help me and to give me safety,” he said. “It is part of my Kurdish culture to help those less fortunate and it’s especially important at this time of the year.” A good haircut can boost confidence and bring happiness, according to Mr Niromande. He added: “When they come for their haircut, I hope it makes them feel loved and cared for, I just want to make them happy. “At Christmas time, so many people get to celebrate but some don’t have enough to even survive.” One of his customers, Mr Niromande said, walked out of the salon completely transformed after having his first haircut in more than a year. “It is making them, and me, very happy,” he said. “I always remember all the good things people did for me when I first came to this country and I want to give something back. “I think, if there’s a way you can help someone, you should do it – just do it.”

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The Power of a Dinner Table…

The Power of a Dinner Table Kathy Fletcher and David Simpson adopted what’s become known as Thursday Night Dinner after their son invited a friend, who sometimes went to school hungry, home for dinner. Word spread from that friend to another, and soon kids were showing up for what’s described as “a diverse, weekly gathering that builds trust, breaks down barriers and establishes relationships rooted in love and high expectations and aimed at building the support networks our kids need to succeed.”The community blossomed beyond the dinner table into a nonprofit organization called AOK, which stands for All Our Kids, that provides more comprehensive support to current AOK kids and many more who need it. May this story of Kathy and David, inspire us to also act kindly wherever we find ourselves.

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“Life’s Playbook: Mastering the Game with Your Strategy Guide”

Life is not just a journey; it’s the ultimate game we’re all playing, each of us navigating through its challenges and opportunities. Imagine it as a grand adventure, where every decision you make, every action you take, shapes the course of your experience. Here’s your strategy guide to winning this game called life. Basics of the GameFrom the moment you’re born, you’re thrust into this game with a unique character and starting point. The first few years are like tutorial missions, teaching you the basics and laying the groundwork. As you grow into a young adult, you gain more freedom but face the challenge of limited experience. This is your prime time to level up your skills quickly. Managing Your ResourcesThe most precious resource in this game isn’t money or possessions, but time. How you allocate your time determines your success. Prioritize tasks that build your skills and maintain your well-being. Your state — influenced by factors like sleep, nutrition, and mental health — directly impacts your ability to achieve your goals. Choosing Your PathLife presents you with countless choices, each influencing your journey. Focus on tasks that improve both your state and skills. Balancing these will lead to overall growth and happiness. Remember, it’s not about mastering one skill, but about developing a range of abilities that complement each other, unlocking new paths and opportunities. Navigating ChallengesThroughout the game, you’ll face obstacles — rejections, setbacks, and unexpected turns. These challenges test your resilience and determination. Stay focused on your goals, conserve your willpower, and learn from every experience. Adaptability is key to thriving in the face of adversity. The Role of EnvironmentYour surroundings play a crucial role. While you can succeed almost anywhere, choosing the right environment enhances your skills and accelerates your progress. Consider moving if your current location limits your potential for growth and happiness. Wealth and SuccessMoney becomes a factor as you progress. Manage it wisely; avoid unnecessary debt and invest in opportunities that yield long-term benefits. Whether you aim to live comfortably or achieve wealth, your financial decisions should align with your goals and values. Life’s Evolving StagesAs you enter different stages of life — marriage, parenthood, career changes — your priorities shift. Each stage brings new responsibilities and rewards. Embrace these changes and continue to pursue personal growth. Final QuestsUltimately, life is finite. We each have a limited number of days to achieve our goals and leave a meaningful legacy. Make the most of every moment. Build relationships, pursue passions, and savor the journey. When the game ends, your legacy will reflect the choices you made and the impact you had on others. ConclusionLife is not just about reaching the end; it’s about how you play the game. Every day offers opportunities for growth, connection, and joy. Choose your actions wisely, stay true to your values, and remember that the real victory lies in living a life that brings you fulfillment and leaves a positive mark on the world. So, ready player one? It’s time to embrace this adventure, make your moves count, and create a story worth sharing. The game of life awaits your strategy.

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