you do you

What’s a personal mantra or philosophy you live by?

My personal philosophy is “you do you”. I am responsible for me, I am accountable only for me.

That being said, I have a responsibility towards others and the environment in which I live. But I do not give account for other’s actions and choices. I give account for me – my choices and actions.

That means, I am called to give others room to make their choices. I need not agree to be part of their life.

Anyway …

a long time ago

What’s a moment in your life that made you feel truly alive?

When? A long time ago, when I was much younger, in a galaxy far far away, I used to preach. That made me feel alive. It is something I do somewhat well, with a little insight, and some humour. But I no longer have the opportunity!!! And I am sure it is not for me now

I also taught small adult classes. And that was my happy place. But, again, no longer for me.

add my wish

The genie grants you a wish. What is it?

Assuming asking for another 1000 wishes is out of the question, I would wish for …

Tbh, I have no clue. I would like my pain to stop but that seems selfish and indulgent. World peace?! Humans will find something else to get upset over. Stop world hunger? Maybe but, again, humans will find a way to mess it up. Maybe I would wish to add my wish to someone else’s wish so they have two!?

Maybe just a really good cup of coffee and a full library?! Sorry, that is two wishes.

Anyway …

self-publish

What are your favorite side-hustle ideas?

My dream, “favourite side-hustle”, is to be a writer. Now, I know, it is unlikely. I have nothing to say and mainly think about “nothing”. I read weird, I think weird. So I would write weird.

I have explored an ebook. But I would actually have to sit down and type something real! So …

[Afterthought] Tbh, I would pay you to read my stuff!

that single individual

Which relationship has taught you the most about yourself?

I had a relation irl that taught me a lot but in a negative way. And, I hope, I have one with the Absolute Paradox that has shaped me. So …

The relationship that taught me most is with Soren Kierkegaard. Kierkegaard’s books have been eye opening. The concept of the “single individual” changed the way I view the world. And, even with a degree in theology, he opened my eyes to what it actually means to have a “relationship with Jesus”.

I have my favourite Kierkegaard quote as a tattoo: the crowd is untruth. And I have a tattoo of Kierkegaard himself.

Anyway …

cafe bookshop

If you could start a new business right now, what would it be?

A book shop focusing on philosophy. Of course it needs a cafe for people to discuss various ideas. Maybe the cafe could have times dedicated to particular people – 11 am is Nietzsche Hour!? It needs an outdoor section for existentialists to sit. It can serve the nihilist breakfast – black coffee. Of course, it would be vegetarian.

I would call it Llama.