Looking back on the last three months, it has been an incredibly instructive journey that has changed me profoundly. I haven't even got around to writing down everything that has happened to me on Mallorca and now in Germany in my blog. There were moments when I felt alone - yes, sometimes like an animal trapped with no way out. But great moments of happiness almost always followed when I overcame the fear, and persevering led to an incredible sense of relief. It was rarely the moments when you felt extremely strong because you had persevered - of course that was an important part too. But it was mostly the moments when I realized that the fear was unfounded.
One of the most wonderful moments was when, after days of doubt at the dog station where I was looking after the dogs and cleaning up mess, I was suddenly greeted by my favorite dogs Rocket, Chewbacca, Shy and even Stich in the morning. This affection was overwhelming. Stich, who at first kept biting my shoes, was suddenly part of the welcoming committee and fell over like a sack from all the frolicking. It was an indescribable feeling that I'm sure many dog owners know and appreciate.
Respect despite dislike
Another host was later joined by an Asian workaway woman who I disliked from the very first moment. She was always in an exaggeratedly good mood - “Oh, so great! Wow, it is so awesome!” - and I didn't buy it at all. But over time, even though I never really liked her, I came to respect her nature and perhaps saw more in her than she did. Her ability to meet new people led to wonderful contacts in the art scene on Mallorca. These led to two exhibitions in which I will participate as an artist.
In the meantime, I've learned from her to always approach conversations positively, even when I'm not in a good mood. I used to live this, let's say, “German authenticity”: if I was in a bad mood, I showed it and said so. But this behavior didn't lift my mood. Now I've learned that you can even respect people you don't get on well with for their strengths.
Current situation
It was a turbulent time, and due to technical problems, my homepage and blog didn't work for 2.5 months. In addition, frequent changes of location and remote places made it difficult to find a job locally. Two online strategies for passive income failed, and the digital nomad jobs I tried turned out to be a pipe dream. A bit of gardening brought in some income, but that was it, while new bills loomed in the background.
My great hope still lies in art painting. My big goal is to “travel the world and paint people their power pictures”. I firmly believe that it is possible, but perhaps not strong enough - otherwise the universe would certainly have given me a few more opportunities. Now my financial reserves are depleted and I have to make a decision.
Do I stay true to my dream and continue traveling the world as a dropout? Will I be able to find a host quickly enough to offer me paid work as well as room and board? Or will I have to return to Germany with my head down, register again, look for an apartment, pay GEZ and earn my living in a normal job? Do I have to put the adventure on hold? It would certainly be a sensible option to save up for the trip to America and have health insurance. But financing all this through my art painting would of course be more fulfilling and enjoyable, but above all absolutely possible.
Do I stay true to my dream and continue traveling the world as a dropout?
Will I be able to find a host quickly enough to offer me paid work as well as room and board? Or will I have to return to Germany with my head down, register again, look for an apartment, pay GEZ and earn my living in a normal job? Do I have to put the adventure on hold? It would certainly be a sensible option to save up for the trip to America and have health insurance. But financing all this through my art painting would of course be more fulfilling and enjoyable, but above all absolutely possible.
However, this requires people who recognize the value of my work and of course, most importantly, my confidence and perseverance to find these people. I am absolutely convinced of the power of my works and the impact they have. If you stand in front of one of my great works, you will know what I mean. If you know someone who is interested, please feel free to recommend me. A donation would also be a great help to support me on my journey.
We are at a turning point and I hope to gather ideas on my journey to create a new system - a world that is healthy and worth living in.
Thank you for reading,
Your Michael
