Take a look around your world. Look at the animals. They go where they like. If there are too many wolves in a pack, not all of them will be able to eat their fill and thrive. Look at the plants. They grow best where they have everything they need. The trees in the forest … Read more
Late summer days showing the first signs of fall are a perfect time to go hiking. Go to the top of a hill or a mountain. Or even a church tower or other tall building. The point is: view what’s around you. From your view up high, take a look at where you just came … Read more
We were at a pizzeria. I ordered a pizza Hawaii, she ordered a pizza Funghi. I remained silent; she spoke. All I was able to do was sit silent in admiration. She moved from one topic to the next as if she were a general inspecting his troops. After the first half hour I had … Read more
A person approaches and pats your upper arm. You know them only fleetingly. The touch is unpleasant for you. Someone falls in love with you. You feel nothing. Someone pursues you with his attention. You react annoyed and retreat. Be considerate. Every person has a sphere of personal privacy. Respect it. It may be a … Read more
Are you satisfied with yourself? Are you well in spite of gout, rheumatism, diabetes, and financial problems? Are you well even though you see people everywhere who are more successful or apparently happier than you? Do you enjoy the patter of rain against the window even though your outing with the wheelchair has to be … Read more
“Why am I alive?” the twenty-eight year old asked me. “You have a purpose,” I answered. “Which one?” “Maybe it is your job to find out,” I answered, serving her a cup of coffee stronger than her doubts in life. © 2011 Hans-Jürgen John
Look out the window! Do you see the birds? They neither sow nor reap, yet they are cared for, people say. We cannot fly. So while sowing, remember that you will reap wheat or hailstones. While sowing, remember that you will reap war or peace. If you have sown hatred you cannot reap peace. If … Read more
Today, calculating is called for. After waking up and the morning toilet, breakfast is within reach. The first coffee, the roll, the cold cuts, the cheese, the jam. Lunch. Afternoon tea, dinner, and before and after some snacks. Added everything up? Now we take five percent of this and wire it to Africa. And tomorrow … Read more
Look at the time. Have you ever watched a clock? Try to stop it with the power of your thoughts. Look at money. It comes and goes. And if more remains than leaves you, you can be proud, but still you will leave it behind at the end of life. Look at your children. The … Read more
Do you dream of the sea? Do not dream! Do you speak of the mountains? Do not speak! Go there unless you are afraid of water and snow. Go there unless you have no other dreams. © 2011 Hans-Jürgen John
