Johannes
Johannes is 74, was born in Eschweiler in the Rhineland, and has lived in Würzburg since 1978. His roots lie between the Rhine and East Prussia. He says of his name: “Johannes means ‘God is gracious’ – and so far, he has been gracious to me.” This calm, grateful view of his life is a recurring theme throughout the conversation.
Privately, Johannes is “more than satisfied” today. He has been with his partner for 25 years, married for over a decade, and professionally successful as a musician and educator – this is how he describes a life filled with music, encounters, and recognition. Würzburg has long since become his home, even though his homeland remains the Rhineland. “Home is where I live and work. My homeland is where my roots are.”
Johannes speaks with keen insight about society and politics. He is concerned about the increasing brutality in political debates, the looming war in Ukraine, intolerance, and ignorance. He sees how mutual respect is coming under pressure – especially when it comes to integration. It is important to him that immigrants are not only welcome, but also genuinely want to integrate. At the same time, he emphasizes how much we ourselves are called upon to show interest, listen, and remain open. “Integration is not a one-way street.”
Despite criticism, Johannes is a confident person. He draws hope from his relationship, his music, his students – and from an attitude to life that remains curious and flexible. Education is central to him: intellectual education as well as emotional education. He says: “Nothing is more important than awakening people – making them curious about the world and about each other.”
For the future, Johannes hopes for a society that remains open, becomes more tolerant, and sees culture not as a luxury but as a foundation for life. Personally, he hopes for health, clarity, and to be able to continue sharing his music for a long time to come.
You can find more stories like Johannes' in our series #endlichankommen.
Listen to the podcast PEACE OUT – 1,000 experiences – wherever podcasts are available.
More info: www.endlichankommen.info
#endlichankommen #pics4peace #Würzburg #home #society #respect #integration #culture #voicesofthecity
Das Projekt
in aller Kürze
Jeder Mensch - egal wie alt, egal woher - will irgendwann endlich ankommen. Wir zeigen 1.000 Menschen aus Würzburg, jeden mit seiner eigenen Geschichte.
Über diese Geschichten, Kunst, Diskussionen und kreative Formate laden wir alle ein, miteinander ins Gespräch zu kommen, gemeinsame Werte zu entdecken und sie im besten Fall gemeinschaftlich umzusetzen.
Dass Diversität im eigenen Umfeld als Chance begriffen werden kann, will das Projekt ebenso erfahrbar machen, wie das Glücksgefühl, das sich einstellt, wenn man selbst etwas verändert.
