Traveling to other countries has definitely been a great experience—from sounds and smells to actions and sentiments—not only have the people been friendly, they have also been welcoming and easy to converse with (in a limited sense of the word). Every encounter has been helpful. If Milan made great progress due to its struggles, so have the German citizens. Not only did the Jewish people suffer during the Natzi Reich, but so did the German population. And at times, it was felt … every memorial, every wall, every step, every remembrance. I can’t even begin to comprehend or imagine how it must’ve during that time. Yes, communities did get destroyed and many, many (millions and millions) of people lost their lives, but communities were built. Support systems did rise, and many did try to overthrow the Reich—both within and out. But Many, many lives were lost during the process.
Now, they have overcome and thrived. The energy, the passion and the eagerness is visible through the community. There was music at every other corner, couples dancing on the streets, couples being affectionate towards each other and many just enjoying life at the park. There were also people meditating at the gate, others protesting next to the meditators, and others performing on the streets to entertain. All respecting each others’ space. And the food, the food was … delicious! From Currywurst to Vietnamese to Indian to middle-eastern food, everything was different, but sensational. If diversity manifests itself through the food then, Germany is gleaming with it. I heard Spanish, Dutch and I don’t know how many more different languages in the city. The people have definitely embraced diversity. If the structure for diversity in a city is based on its food then, the German people have spoken and have embraced a new era. Needless to say, my opinion is based on first impressions, I truly don’t know the true structure of the city, or if all people embrace this new form of living. But, I do hope many people have welcomed and embraced each other. The sense for life and love has truly become the fabric of the city, in my opinion. Of course, there is still poverty, homelessness and struggles, but everyone has an energy that can only be experienced and not explained or written about.
