Dornach, Switzerland. What is life like as a young person in today’s world? We asked around. Answers from Simon Dijkstra, coordinator at the Goetheanum Youth Section.
What do you worry about?
It seems easy for me in this world to be worried by things due to all information constantly coming to us. Yet, I think that it doesn’t really help us to be worried.
Where do you feel safe?
In my body, in the sun, in nature, in my home.
What does “home” mean to you?
Being healthy, safe, and grounded in my body, mind, and spirit. With clarity, light and love—knowing where I am, where I came from and having a sense of being able to deal with any situation even when it is challenging.
What is important for you in relationships?
Love, care, honesty. Not losing myself.
Are you a role model? And if yes, for whom?
Sometimes. I hope that I live that role well, because I can see that I am very imperfect. I think that is the thing anyway with growing up: seeing that the people we look up to are ultimately humans, too. For me that means that no better or worse can be defined between different human beings.
Who or what inspires you?
Jesus Christ. God. Nature. Great music. Reading books and articles about all different things. Relationships and friendships.
What would you most like to develop in yourself?
The ability to love and care.
What has been your best mistake lately?
Bad communication.
When do you feel happy? When do you feel content?
I feel happy or content when the sun shines, when my life is in order, when I love, when I have good food, when I read things or hear ideas that inspire me. When I play music, when I can take good care of myself.
What makes you laugh (secretly)?
When I reflect on myself and my behavior and see things that are just very funny for their stupidity or blindness.
Where do you draw the line?
When taking care of another person’s needs will afflict my ability to take care of myself.
Do you have a connection to spirituality? If so, what does that look like?
God, prayer, deep connection with the body. Observation. Listening. Learning.
What question(s) would you like an answer to?
How are we to live love and relationships in this age?
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Translation Paula Boslau
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