I grew up in a small village in Germany. From an early age, people would say, „You’re sure to become a nurse one day.“ So it’s probably no surprise that I actually wanted to become a geriatric caregiver.

But even before that, I had always been writing. It all started when, as a small child, I would regularly sit in the attic and use the inside of a box of chocolates as a typewriter—that is, the plastic insert where the delicious chocolates are stored. My imagination knew no bounds, and the idea of being a secretary who typed all day long sparked my creativity. Later, I kept a diary, and at age 26, I started what is now called journaling.

When I was about 17, I came across a little book filled with many short stories full of wisdom. I was so captivated that I read it over and over again. One story was about a stone palm tree. An angry man had jammed a heavy stone between its young shoots, and it had to learn to accept that stone in its heart. I was fascinated by the idea that stories can teach us how to deal with life’s situations.

Later, in my career as an occupational therapist, I heard countless real-life stories over the course of more than 30 years and witnessed how people cope with their challenges.

I was particularly struck by the stories of the Maasai, a nomadic people in Kenya. Since I visit there regularly and live among them, I’ve had the opportunity to listen to stories that speak of respect, growth, droughts, hunger, and loss. But they also talk about how important it is to keep your head up so that your spirit stays healthy. Laughter is important; everything else makes you sick.

I've come to realize that every person in this world has something to share, and that others can learn from it and gain new inspiration.

I can't wait to hear your story!