More than 54 years ago, I yearned for my dream job. It was all thanks to a radio show in Germany, "Between Hamburg and Haiti." Every Sunday, they shared stories of faraway lands and diverse peoples. I soared alongside the reporter on my imaginary magic carpet, exploring these countries and experiencing the wondrous unfamiliarity of the world. The colors of life. Dreamlike!
But as so often happens, life took a different turn. Due to circumstances that weren't always conducive to dreaming, I struggled with reading and writing. I became a payroll accountant. Yet, throughout my life, this dream of traversing the globe lingered within me. How wonderful it would be to journey around the world, capturing the stories of people. Every story is worth telling. Every single one!
Well, what can I say? I'm a fighter, and I've battled through life's adversities. Sometimes well, sometimes not. In many moments, I felt lost, I cried, I took wrong turns. Time and again, I told myself I'd never make it... How destructive these life lies are. They shatter every dream. Until you meet people who believe in you. Who truly believe. And who take your hand, help you up, and support you. Who are friends!
Almost 14 years have passed since then. I set off on my journey. I left my hometown, gave away my belongings, and ventured out onto the sea of life. On my journey so far, I've been richly blessed. I've had the privilege of meeting many unique people, some of whom are now friends. Like a precious bouquet of diversity. The stories of this world have become the colors of my life, and new ones are added every day. Beautiful, just like every single person! Multifaceted, exciting, inspiring.
My childhood dream has come true. And I hope this journey will continue to lead me to the stories of the world for a long time to come. By the way, 13 years ago, I had the opportunity to study again. In all my brokenness, life has richly blessed me. I am now a journalist and have written two books so far...
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