Balkan Beats 48- Existence: A dance of thoughts

Balkan Beats

Existence A dance of thoughts

#48

FREE PRESS

A BIMONTHLY MAGAZINE BY THE VOLUNTEERS OF THE UNITED SOCIETIES OF BALKANS

Editorial

The 48th Edition

Existence - A dance of thoughts Leene Pärtel, Alessia Mancino “Dear readers,

We will guide you through some thoughts about existence, life, social interactions, poetry, movies, philosophy, photography. Wherever you are right now, take a comfortable seat, some deep breaths to connect with yourself and keep an open mind to enjoy the journey.

This is our window to the state of being, the dance of light and shadows. Everybody lives their unique life, battles their inner thoughts and societal pressures, sees the world through their personal prism. The self is not something solid; it’s fluid, it has the power to transform, You’re welcome to ask yourself questions, take grow, stretch, and take the shape of the envi- notes, think or simply let the words sink in your ronment. We are all different in our own ways, mind and soul. but so similar at the same time.

We wish you a surprising journey. ”

Balkan Beats, a part of Balkan Hotspot

Balkan Hotspot is the ESC (European Solidar- changes in the Balkan and Eastern European re-

ity Corps) project of “United Societies of Bal- gion and under the need for the creation of a kans”, a NGO founded in Thessaloniki in 2008 better social environment. by a team of active young people.

Key areas of the organization’s activities conThe Balkans and Eastern Europe are geograph- cern the defense of human rights, the organizaical regions with many cultural features which tion of youth exchanges and training courses, offer a broad spectrum of actions and youth in- which will bring young people from Balkans and volvement initiatives. The organization was cre- Europe together, the organization of local educaated as a response to the pressure of constant tional seminars and multimedia production. www.balkanhotspot.org

United Societies of Balkans is a Non Governmental Organization, founded in Thessaloniki in 2008, by a team of active young people. The organization was created as a response to the pressure of constant changes in the Balkan and Eastern European region and under the need for the creation of a better social environment. Key areas of the organization’s activities concern the defense of human rights, the organization of youth exchanges and training courses, which will bring young people from Balkans and Europe together, the organization of local educational seminars and multimedia production (webradio, videos, documentaries).

Main goals of the organization • To promote the values of non formal le- aring,volunteering, active citizenship and democracy for the creation of a better future for European youth.

• To promote human rights, solidarity and respect for diversity.

• To build healthy cooperation bridges between countries of the Balkan area and that of Eastern Europe with the rest of Europe.

• To locate and multiply the special cultural attributes of our societies.

• The break down of prejudices and stereo- types between Balkan countries.

Tel./Fax: +30 2310 215 629 | www.usbngo.gr

Property of Balkan Beats The United Societies of Balkans, NGO, does not necessarily share the opinions expressed in Balkan Beats. It is illegal to reproduce any part of this publication without referring to the source.

UNITED SOCIETIES OF BALKANS, NGO 8, Delmouzou str., Thessaloniki

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This magazine is distributed free of charge.

Contents

Contents Opening Act

Personal Narrative

INTERCONNECTEDNESS

04

INTERNAL JOURNEYS

A Quick Narrative of What Life is About

07

Is Social Interaction a Must for Humans?

09

Shaping Our Existence: Individual Agency or Social Determinism?

12

Interview with Christina Michalopoulou

32

Volunteering in Greece: A journey of Cultural Immersion and Personal Growth

36

Quarter-Life Crisis

The Power of Nature PRACTISING PHILOSOPHY

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Unraveling Existence: Nihilism Explored in “Everything Everywhere All at Once“

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The Influence of Existentialism on Therapeutic Practice

20

Navigating Quarter-Life Crisis: A Journey of SelfReflection and Coping

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28

Gareth Jones: saving the memories of millions forgotten and clashing with the deniers

HISTORICAL JOURNEYS

41

Cyprus: Existence in a Divided Island of Contrasts

Local Life CULTURAL ENRICHMENT

44

The Mediterranean Lifestyle: Nourishing Body, Mind and Soul

48

54

Interview with Christina Evgenidou

Mix Fix

SEEKING THE ESSENCE OF EXISTENCE

60

Inhere part of the city

63

Timelaps

65

Sonder

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La Puoi Fare Una Cosa Fatta Bene Per Favore?

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Can You Do Something Well Please?

68

You Feel Everything Inside but You Can’t Tell

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“How many impossible scenes are you seeing?”

Interview with Dimitris Pavlidis OVERCOMING STRUGGLES

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Sometimes I Think About Dying

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Opening Act Interconnectedness

A Quick Narrative of What Life is About A simple scientific explanation

by Iryna Stryha

Have you ever stopped to wonder how life ac- ity of things in the universe to create change.

tually works? Exploring the complexities of life and existence involves connecting knowledge from various fields, as everything is closely interconnected. By studying one thing, you can uncover connections to many other areas, expanding your understanding of the world. Today, let’s explore some aspects of how life works, hoping to spark new connections in your mind, enriching your perception of existence.

One of the most fascinating phenomena in our

universe is the force of entropy. It refers to the tendency of systems to move from a state of greater organization to a state of lesser organization. In the context of life, entropy is the force that ultimately leads to the decay and death of living things. The universe doesn’t really like complexity — it wants things to get simple. However, living organisms constantly work against entropy to maintain their complex structures.

A ll life is based on cells, which are consid-

Constant change is required to maintain life.

The total amount of energy in our universe is always the same. It can change form, but the amount remains constant.

One of the main challenges early life on Earth faced was finding a source of energy and a way to use it. The earliest cells obtained energy from simple chemical reactions. Over time, they discovered a mechanism for energy transfer — using a molecule called ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Its structure is good for accepting and releasing energy. When a cell needs energy, it can break down ATP and use the released chemical energy to do work and create change. Every living thing on Earth uses ATP or something very similar to keep life’s crucial processes going. The first living systems didn’t have much energy to create and maintain bigger complexity, so life on Earth stayed pretty simple for a while.

ered the smallest living systems. Cells are “All life is based on cells, which alive, but they emerge from non-living compoare considered the smallest nents, forming a separated system within the living systems. ” universe. When this separation breaks, the cell dies and becomes a part of the non-living universe again. To stay alive, every second, a huge Eventually, life on Earth figured out how to harnumber of processes occur in the cell to ensure ness an amazing energy source — the sun. Sun its separation from the rest of the universe and fuses atoms and emits photons — a source of energy that spreads across the solar system. prevent it from achieving entropy.

Some cells learned to convert this electroFor example, cell membrane regulates the flow magnetic energy (photons) into chemical enof ions in and out of a cell. If the balance is dis- ergy stored in ATP — we call this process phorupted, the cell will die. To perform processes tosynthesis. Over time, some cells figured out like this, a cell needs energy, which is the abil- how to store a lot of chemical energy using glu-

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Interconnectedness Opening Act

cose, which is also easy to break down. Some other cells decided to just eat other hard-working cells that produced energy, with all their ATP and glucose, instead of doing the work of converting the energy. So now, some cells produced sugar, others ate them. The processes of both types of cells produced a limited amount of energy and made their evolutionary possibilities somewhat constrained. Evolution was happening, but there were no significant changes.

This continued until two cells figured out a way to work together — one cell ate another and did not kill it. This cell became the ancestor of all animals on our planet, including you. We can trace back our existence to this moment when the history of life changed forever — when the two cells became one, they became way more powerful. This phenomenon occurs everywhere in the universe — and is called emergence. Emergence describes how small things gather to become something better together — complexity arising from simplicity. From then on, the inner cell, which evolved into what we now call mitochondria, could focus on producing ATP and delegate survival to the outer cell.

The outer cell focused on protection from the dangerous external world. It provided the mitochondria with food, not having to worry about energy production. Mitochondria take glucose that the cell gets from eating other things and combust it with oxygen and prototype molecules to make new, energy-rich ATP. This division of labor meant that the new cell had much more energy available, leading to more possibilities for more complex structures to develop and evolution to unfold.

These cells began forming communities, cre-

ating multicellular life. These communities adopted different philosophies and ways of existence, which they stored in DNA that changed over time and generations, resulting in diverse organisms. Emergence continued to shape life, and eventually evolution led to humans.

A s humans, we are composed of trillions of

cells. They cooperate, specialize, and interact using an incredibly complex language of proteins, developing higher organization. Our organs and body parts are extremely complex systems. The more complex the system, the more resistant it is to entropy. Individual cells are far more vulnerable to entropy than humans overall.

“ We can trace back our existence to this moment when the history of life changed forever — when the two cells became one, they became way more powerful.”

S o still, human life is quite fragile as it re-

quires a constant supply of materials used to sustain the lives of many individual cells that make up our bodies. Every human cell is filled with little machines that provide you with energy to stay alive. If this process is interrupted, even for a few minutes, you will die.

Our bodies have figured out some mecha-

nisms to be less prone to lack of supplies — for example, we store glucose in fat cells so that if we don’t eat for a while, we still have the energy to sustain life. However, we can’t store enough oxygen to survive for more than a few minutes.

Why wouldn’t we store ATP directly to prevent death after a few minutes without air? Well, in one day, to sustain itself, your body produces an amount of ATP somewhat equal to your weight.

The molecule is constantly produced and used up fairly quickly. ATP is good for quick energy spread but terrible for storing, as it only contains 1% of glucose’s energy and is three times bigger. Blood system constantly transports the nutrients (like glucose) and oxygen to cells around the body. Without it, cells can’t provide themselves with energy. That’s why, for example, if a person’s heart stops beating, immedi-

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Opening Act Interconnectedness

ate actions like a heart massage are needed to do the heart’s job externally. If the heart stops pumping blood, it means many cells simultaneously would not be able to produce energy to stay alive. The more time would pass without restoring the system — the more cells would die — meaning a human as a whole might eventually die as well.

“Our existence is so simple yet so complex. Atoms form molecules — molecules form proteins — proteins make up cells — cells create organs — organs form individuals — and individuals build societies. ”

Our existence is so simple yet so complex. At-

oms form molecules — molecules form proteins — proteins make up cells — cells create organs — organs form individuals — and individuals build societies. But how do individual cells know what to do? There is no higher authority

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dictating their actions, just single units communicating with their neighbors and acting according to the feedback. Similarly, human societies, nations, and humanity as a whole exist just because many humans interact with one other.

A single human without humanity and its accumulated knowledge is just an animal. But together we form something way more powerful and truly fascinating. A lot of processes occurring in humanity are pretty similar to what happens on smaller scales. We evolve as individuals, we communicate using our own languages, we create connections and share love that contributes to mutual growth and evolution, we store information and pass it on to next generations, we specialize, create communities with different ideologies – so that something bigger than us can evolve.

I hope this narrative evoked new ideas and links in you and added puzzle pieces to your understanding of the world. Life is an adventure waiting to be explored, and your curiosity is the compass that guides the way.

Interconnectedness Opening Act

Is Social Interaction a Must for Humans?

How positive social interactions benefit our health

by Uxío Fernández Ferrás

nent rush, paradoxically this lack of social in-

The human necessity for social interaction teraction can be even greater.

is a deeply studied topic, especially in recent years. Late stage capitalist societies in the 21st century seem obsessed with people being productive and growing more ambitious; so the huge amount of hours daily dedicated to work or education, make it more difficult to find moments to foster important social connections. In big cities, where individualism is more evident and life seems to be in a perma-

COVID-19 pandemic was probably the peak of this “social struggle” for many people, it emphasised the need for social connection, but also brought forth mental health as an overarching concern. Along with the disease itself or the uncertainty of the period, the whole or partial lack of social interaction during the lockdown made people value the importance of it in their lives.

Creating and keeping interactions with other people is key for our health

© Anna Shvets

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Opening Act Interconnectedness

Even the work environment, a social interaction space for lots of people (mostly those living alone), is being threatened in recent years by the rise of remote working. Apart from the obvious positive effects you feel when someone makes you laugh or hugs you when you are struggling, also our health benefits from social interaction in almost an incalculable way.

ence social pain, it hurts as much as it would do when suffering from physical damage. What happens in our brain definitely conditions our health and body, so keeping positive social interactions and, consequently, a steady mental health, is crucial in order to make our life easier and happier.

A uthors like Jessica Martino and Jennifer

“When we get rejected or we experience social pain, it hurts as much as it would do when suffering from physical damage. ”

Pegg note that a positive social interaction has a broad variety of benefits: it controls our body mass and sugars, improves the recovery of diseases like cancer, prevents depression or mitigates posttraumatic stress symptoms. Our brain and mental health improve when social interaction is positive and we feel supported and connected with other people, but the opposite can be really harmful to us. Those with less developed social skills, the ones living in some kind of an isolation or those experiencing negative social interactions (like being denied the expression of their feelings, receiving critical remarks, feeling their privacy invaded, etc) could be in a dilemma if the situation gets prolonged in the future.

Some experts like Holt-Lunstad reported that low or negative social interaction has similar harmful effects to our body as being an alcoholic or smoking several cigarettes a day and worse than obesity or sedentary lifestyle.

Our brain gets so stimulated by social interaction, according to UCLA professor Matthew Lieberman, when we get rejected or we experi-

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A s previously proved, the crucial point is not

only to socialise but the interactions should be as positive, stable, healthy and varied as they can. Even if we are distant or we don’t have enough time to meet our beloved ones, the infinite possibilities that social media offers us to keep in touch, can bring us health benefits in the future. People often tend to ignore that a proper and healthy social life could be one of the basis of a right lifestyle, and we should take better care of it as much as we do for other aspects of our daily lives.

Humans are undoubtedly social animals and

so we should try to foster rich social relationships, respecting each one’s “social battery” and boundaries, but not denying the fact that socialising is a key factor in our personal development. So go out and socialise, your health will thank you for it!

Interconnectedness Opening Act

Shaping Our Existence: Individual Agency or Social Determinism?

Socioeconomic Influences on Youth Development in the Balkans: Bridging Aspirations and Realities

by Luise Meerheim

In the journey from youth to adulthood, individ- The Illusion of Independence uals encounter the pervasive belief that “You can achieve anything if you just really want to.” Youth marks a phase of breaking free from paWhile seemingly empowering, a closer examination reveals a need for critical analysis, considering the intricate interplay between individual aspirations and societal structures.

“In fact, the statistics show that youngsters of Montenegro, Albania, Romania and Bosnia and Herzegovina expressed much less tolerance about homosexuality or abortion than about bribery or tax fraud. ”

Southeast Europe Region

© PytyCzech

rental dependence, making independent life decisions, and delving into education, careers, and societal involvement. However, the prevailing notion of individual achievement neglects the impact of social structures, creating a potentially misleading image of a world focused solely on the individual.

Unveiling Social Disparities: Insights from the Balkans 1

A 2018 study commissioned by the Friedrich

Ebert Foundation surveyed 10,000 young people across ten different Balkan states (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria Croatia, Kosovo, North- Macedonia, Montenegro, Romania, Serbia und Slovenia) to find out to what extent their wishes and experiences for and about life are related to the social and societal structures in which they grew up. The equally sobering and sad result was that: “Social inequalities permeate all aspects of young people’s lives and yield differences in the extent to which young people have access to higher levels of education, engage in different self-development activi1 Miran Lavrič, Smiljka Tomanović und Mirna Jusić, in Youth Studies Southeast Europe 2018/2019

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Opening Act Interconnectedness

ties, partake in politics or volunteering activi- participation and have little trust in political inties or access employment”. stitutions. Such correlation leads to the loss of for a large group of people who are E ducation: A Link to Social Mobility. The potential hindered from forming and participating in their study highlights a strong correlation between society solely due to their backgrounds. parental education levels and a youth’s likelihood of enrolling in university. For young people Values and Morals: A Reflection of Sociofrom a parental home with a university degree economic Background. Although we usually it is from 26 times in Macedonia to more than assume that we can form our opinions, val100 times more likely in Bulgaria, Croatia, and ues and morals by ourselves, statistics reRomania to enrol in university than for peers veal a correlation between life perspectives whose parents have just a primary school di- and socioeconomic origins. The youth in more ploma. This emphasizes that educational suc- economically secure countries display greater cess in Balkan states remains closely tied to openness to inclusive societies, while those in one’s social background, which is concern- less secure conditions exhibit lower tolerance ing as education can be understood as a core for lifestyles deviant from the norm. In fact, the mechanism for social mobility and a lack of ed- statistics show that youngsters of Montenegro, ucational justice therefore as one of the main Albania, Romania and Bosnia and Herzegovina reasons for the reproduction of social inequali- expressed much less tolerance about homoties and exclusion. sexuality or abortion than about bribery or tax fraud. Even if that seems to be shocking at the first glance, scientists found out that it is reasoned by the fact that in less economically secure conditions, so-called ‘survival values’ tend to prevail which include low tolerance for other lifestyles.2 The insecure economic situation also leads the Balkan Youth to strongly wish for a stronger welfare-state which is actually mirin their voting behaviour as they tend to Employment Prospects: The Weight of Socio- rored sympathize with the two political extremes that economic Status. As the study was able to esdemand an expansion of social responsibilities tablish, economic and cultural capital not only from the government. shape the access to, and the quality of, education, but also significantly determine the profes- Political Engagement: Resources and Particsional success and employment opportunities ipation. Young people in the Balkans show a of young individuals. It is striking that young comparatively low level of interest and knowlpeople from financially and educationally edge in politics, which goes hand in hand with a disadvantaged homes are significantly more strikingly low level of political participation. For likely to be affected by unemployment, which example, in Albania, 61 percent of those quesindicates unequal opportunities in the labour tioned state they are not interested in nationmarket, leading to social disparities. These al politics at all. The surveys underscore that findings have serious consequences as it has 2 Ronald Inglehart, Christian Welzel, in Modernization, been found that unemployed young people are Cultural Change, and Democracy: The Human Development also showing less interest in civic and political Sequence. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2005

“In order to enable ourselves to shape our existence and be the architects of our lives, states and governments must shoulder the responsibility of dismantling barriers to equal opportunities.”

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Interconnectedness Opening Act

Percentage of surveyed people who are not at all interested in national politics

© Luise Meerheim

both political and civic engagement appear to be dependent on access to various resources: for example, participation in elections, various forms of issue-specific interest, engagement in parties and voluntary work correlate very strongly with a higher socio-economic status and the level of education and/or education of the parents.

ployment, but also our fundamental values and convictions, as well as the extent of our civic and political engagement, are dependent on the structures in which we grew up. Our educational opportunities, the prospect of professional success, even our personal morals and values remain a question of our social class up to this day. It is obvious that this should not remain Beyond Individualism: Recognizing the case and that urgent action is needed. In order to enable ourselves to shape our existence Collective Influence and be the architects of our lives, states and The results collectively underscore that the de- governments must shoulder the responsibility velopment of self and existence is significant- of dismantling barriers to equal opportunities. ly determined by social and economic backgrounds, as well as the broader socio-political Until then, the words of youth researcher Andy Furlong will probably remain true: “Youth, context of one’s cou ntry. which should be the time of opportunity, or The life-realities for young people in the not yet flux and transformation, is all too often about consolidated and new Balkan democracies par- assuming roles that are in keeping with their ticularly show that not only education and em- social and economic origins.”.

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Opening Act Interconnectedness

The Power of Nature Nature and green spaces ability to uplift our spirits and promote a profound sense of serenity

by Friederike Schulz

The poetry of nature

The sound of the sea, the rustle of leaves in the forest and the smell of rain. Summer nights intertwine with the gentle melodies of the waves and the mysterious whispers of the trees. It is a symphony of the senses, captured in the magical moments under the sky.

Going outside and being surrounded by nature

freedom, and a little flower.” Nature offers a unique gift to each of us, unveiling its wonders in both the grand and the subtle. It helps us to be more calm and balanced. It is scientifically proven that nature’s impact extends to stress reduction, alleviating depression and anxiety.

Spending time outdoors enhances attention and mindfulness, allowing us to focus and be present in the moment.

feeds the soul. I sense a subtle peace perme- Living in a busy world ating my body, mind and spirit. I draw inspiration from landscapes and intricate details. As L iving in a vibrant city poses the risk of deHans Christian Andersen once said, “Just liv- tachment from nature, hindering relaxation and ing is not enough... one must have sunshine, wellbeing. In urban settings like Thessaloniki,

© Kellie Churchman

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Interconnectedness Opening Act

green spaces become essential. Amid the hustle of city life, these spaces not only improve the ecosystem but also serve as sanctuaries for our health.

“Just living is not enough... one must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.”

Venturing into nature acts also like a refuge from the digital realm. As someone aptly put it, there is a shift in dynamics– from a time when the internet was an escape from the world to now, where the outside becomes a sanctuary from the pervasive influence of the online realm. In this era of constant connectivity and performance driven society, green spaces in cities like Thessaloniki emerge not just as ecological necessities but as essential havens for individuals seeking respite from the demands of a digitalized society. These spaces serve not only to improve the urban ecosystem but also to rekindle the connection between younger generations and the soothing embrace of nature. As we navigate the pressures of a profit –driven

and performance –oriented culture, the importance of fostering the connection becomes increasingly evident, offering an escape from the ever present world of the internet. Nature, in its timeless allure, continues to be a vital source of rejuvenation amid the complexities of modern urban life.

While Thessaloniki offers a rich spectrum of culture and history with its spirited city life, in my experience the city itself has comparatively fewer green spaces. While the busy streets and energetic atmosphere are invigorating, they highlight the need for more accessible natural retreats in the city. However, Thessalonikis beauty lies not only in its cityscape, but also in the fascinating surroundings just outside its borders.

List of green spaces in Thessaloniki In the city: Nea Paralia Park YMCA park Pashas Garden Outside the city: Seich Sou forest The Dam in Thermi The forest of Chortiatis Lagoon of Kalichori The delta of Axios river © Josiah Lewis

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Opening Act Practising Philosophy

Unraveling Existence: Nihilism Explored in “Everything Everywhere All at Once“ Decoding Life’s Meaning through cinema

by Svenja Kesseler

In the cinematic landscape, „Everything Every- between opposing perspectives on nihilism. Ev-

where All at Once“, directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, isn’t just a movie- beyond its surface plot and visuals lies a profound exploration of nihilism- the belief that life lacks inherent meaning.

The Multiverse

elyn (Michelle Yeoh), the protagonist, finds herself at the crossroads between the belief system of her daughter (Stephanie Hsu) and her husband, Waymond (Ke Huy Quan). This inner conflict becomes a lens through which the film explores different approaches to confront existential questions.

As the audience delves into the movie’s mul- The multiverse depicted in the film mirrors

tidimensional narrative, the three central char- our postmodern lifestyle, illustrating the mulacters serve as representatives for the conflict tiperspectiveness of our interconnected world.

Theatrical release

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Practising Philosophy Opening Act

Through the World Wide Web, we can escape our everyday life, exploring different „universes“ or versions of ourselves in our own „virtual multiverse.“ The film suggests that this explorations can lead to contemplation of the meaning and value of existence in a world that offers boundless possibilities and an endless amount of people we can compare ourselves to. Just as Evelyn comes to realize by exploring the multiverse, we might reach the conclusion that our existence is insignificant in the grand spectrum of things, that we don’t matter and that there is no inherent meaning or value to life.

“We are all stupid. Small, stupid humans. Ev-

ery new discovery is just a reminder- We are all small & stupid” - daughter explaining her nihilistic views on life

From Black Bagels to Googly Eyes

Central to the film’s narrative is the symbol of

the black bagel, a visual metaphor for the crisis of meaning and the embrace of nihilism. The black ring represents everything we know, we talk about, we think about, while its center is hollow and empty, illustrating that - if one really thinks about it - there is no meaning or sense

behind the things we care about in our everyday lives. Furthermore, the black bagel mirrors the circular shapes traced throughout the movie, evoking a sense of meaningless repetition in the cyclical nature of existence.

“Another year, pretending we know what we

are doing, but really, we’re just going around in circles“ - Evelyn commenting on chinese new year.

However, just as Evelyn joins her daughter in the belief that life is meaningless, another symbol emerges - the googly eyes. When she is about to follow her daughter into the black bagel, she turns around one last time, reflecting on her life and her husband, who she has always seen as weak, because even in times of trouble or crisis he was joking around, seemingly not grasping the vastness of their problems. He has a lighter approach to the world, offering a counter perspective on nihilism by embodying compassion, empathy and unconditional love. The googly eyes he puts on everything are black in the Center and white on the outside, suggesting that we might not understand everything around us, but we can get to know ourselves. The eyes become a visual representation of seeing the world through a different, more optimistic lens.

While Evelyn and her daughter grapple with the

The two main symbols

vastness of the universe and the ensuing existential questions, Waymond stands defiant.

His emphasis on kindness, optimism and love challenges the notion that nihilism is solely a destructive force.

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Opening Act Practising Philosophy

Embracing the Void: Nihilism and Reinvention

In the final scenes of “Everything Everywhere All A s Evelyn reflects on Waymond’s actions, a at Once,” the family reunites amid the vastness

different approach to nihilism surfaces- acceptance of the world and all the uncertainties that come with it. Instead of focusing on individualism or personal achievement, Waymond demonstrates that significance can be found in the connections we build around us and how crucial it is to be kind, that optimism and kindness are not the characteristics of someone who is naive or ignorant, but tools used intentionally against nihilism.

of the multiverse, offering a profound lesson in facing nihilism. Their connection becomes a powerful reminder that, in a seemingly indifferent universe, shared experiences and relationships can provide genuine meaning.

This conclusion mirrors a broader perspective

on nihilism: the recognition that, despite life’s inherent uncertainties, we possess the agency to redefine our own purpose. Just as the family finds solace in their bonds, we, too, can find sig“You can tell me its a cruel world and that we nificance and meaning in our own life. are all just running around in circles. I know that. I have been on this earth just as many In essence, the film encourages us to view nidays as you. When I’m deciding to see the good hilism not as a roadblock but as an opportunity sides of things, i’m not being naive. It is strate- for personal and collective reinvention. There is gic and necessary. It’s how I’ve learned to sur- a beautiful side to nihilism too, because as life vive through everything. I know you see your- unfolds as a blank canvas, it gives us the freeself as a fighter. Well, I see myself as one too.” dom to sketch our own narrative.

Waymond

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Practising Philosophy Opening Act

The Influence of Existentialism on Therapeutic Practice How philosophy can be a tool to frame the therapeutic work

by Alix Ibar

Irving D. Yalom, a prominent psychiatrist and The relatively new science of psychology is psychotherapist, has been a pioneer in the

constantly developing, far from the prejudices that are sometimes attributed to it. The plurality of visions and teachings in psychology is quite unknown, this article is an introduction to the existentialist approach to therapy.

realm of existential psychotherapy and the integration of philosophy into clinical practice. He has also been one of the first psychiatrists to explore the possibilities of group therapy, believing that empathy can be a strong tool for

Irvin Yalom

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Opening Act Practising Philosophy

self-understanding. The book “Existential Psychotherapy”, published in 1980, has become a cornerstone for mental health professionals seeking a profound understanding of existential principles and their application in therapeutic practice. Meanwhile, it is also an accessible example of the concrete application of the philosophy of Sartre for non-professionals.

Existentialism

For Irving Yalom, the two main sources of anxiety are death and meaning anxiety. Those two fears are intrinsically linked, in the sense that the fear of death is often motivated by the feeling of not having lived a meaningful life. The application of this philosophy in therapy is a way to bring the patients in front of their own choices and start a reflection to understand what can be changed by the patients themselves.

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that Existential therapy emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries. One of In “Existential Psychotherapy”, Yrving Yalom the foundations of this philosophical movement can be found in this affirmation of Sartre in the book published in 1946 “Existentialism is a humanism” : «Existence precedes essence ». This statement means that individuals exist first, and their essence is determined through their choices and actions. This concept highlights the importance of personal responsibility and the idea that individuals shape their own destinies. His most famous citation : « In life, we cannot do whatever we want, but we are responsible for what we are » is characteristic of the central place that liberty takes in his work.

“In life, we cannot do whatever we want, but we are responsible for what we are. ”

mostly presents some cases of patients that faced near-death experience, he has worked with several terminal cancer patients for a long time, allowing them to confront death peacefully and at the same time, he also gives the reader a chance to understand that it’s never too late to change the perception we have of our own lives.

At the heart of Existential Psychotherapy lies

the exploration of fundamental existential themes that shape the human path. Drawing inspiration from existential thinkers such as Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, and Sartre, Yalom delves into the complexities of existence, including the inevitability of death, the pursuit of meaning, the anxiety of freedom, and the isolation intrinsic to human life.

One of the central tenets of Yalom’s existen-

This fundamental principle implies a reflection tial approach is the idea that therapists and cli-

on liberty as a responsibility of every human being. As liberty is no longer an idealistic goal to reach, but a daily choice that no one can avoid, existentialist philosophers consider it to be the main source of human anguish.

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ents engage in a shared exploration of the human condition. Yalom encourages therapists to be involved in the relationship with their patients, embracing authenticity and fostering a genuine connection. Through this process, cli-

Practising Philosophy Opening Act

tions, can help the individual question their own ents are guided to confront their fears, anxiet- assertions about themself. ies, and dilemmas, leading to personal growth and self-discovery.

Conclusion

By using some examples of situations he has been confronted as a therapist, he invites the reader to enter the private space of the consulting room and understand the dynamic of therapeutic work by analyzing not only the reactions of the patient but also his own.

Group therapy

This relationship between the patient and the

therapist highlights another fundamental concept of existentialism that Sartre theorizes in the play ”No Exit” (1944) in theses words : « Hell is other people ».

This therapeutic approach has sparked much

debate in the academic community because it is in total opposition to the behaviorist approach to therapy, which is still prominent today. Behaviorists analyze the patient’s individual choices and reactions as a starting point for working on their past in order to understand what drives the patient to act this way. Existentialist therapists consider the individual in his or her present environment, and tend instead to question the instantaneous emotions provided by events and reactions and thus avoid the deterministic pitfall of analyzing the past, in order to focus on future possibilities for improvement.

By this sentence, Sartre implies that the only Recommendations for familiarizing yourself place in life where our freedom is taken away with the work of Irvin D Yalom from us, is the look of other people on ourselves. The perception that others have of us Novels: is beyond our control. and the desire to change this perception is an obstacle to the freedom - When Nietzsche Wept, 1992 we have to shape the person we want to become, by being influenced by the desire that the - The Schopenhauer cure, 2000 others project onto us. The way others look at us acts as a distorting mirror, exposing aspects Essays: of our personality that we had no knowledge of.

- Existential Psychotherapy, 1980

For a therapist, confronting the patient with - Love’s Executioner and Other Tales of Psycho-

this mirror can also create a trigger catalyst therapy, 1989 for change. The mediation of a therapy group implies understanding how to create the con- Show: ditions for empathy. Thus, allowing each person to transform the way we look at the other, - In Treatment, 2008, HBO, directed by Rodrigo to overcome their judgements and preconcep- Garcia, 4 seasons, 106 episodes of 25 minutes.

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Opening Act Practising Philosophy

Navigating Quarter-Life Crisis: A Journey of SelfReflection and Coping How the Transactional Stress Model can teach us empowering Self-Discovery through Conscious Reappraisal

by Luise Meerheim

Understanding the Quarter-Life Crisis

The transition from youth to adulthood often

brings forth a myriad of challenges, leading many individuals to experience what is commonly known as a quarter-life crisis. This period is marked by feelings of helplessness, indecision, and psychological stress.

To overcome this roadblock in the journey of life, exploring Lazarus’s and Folkman’s Transactional Stress Model can provide valuable insights.

active role of the individual, who isn’t merely subjected to stressors but can actively respond to them. Thereby, the psychologists underline that everybody’s own way of reacting and interpreting an event has way more influence on the personal stress-level than the situation itself. Based on this discovery, they created the Transactional model of Stress serving as a scheme to aid people navigating stressful situations by applying certain coping strategies and objective appraisal.

Unravelling the Transactional Stress Model

The Two Phases of Appraisal

chological stress when a situation’s demand oversteps our capacity to deal with it. It is the internal response of our body to any external stimulus perceived as harmful.1 Stressors can include immense concerns such as career uncertainty, relationship challenges or societal expectations, but also small irritations such as missing a bus and being late for work. Instead of regarding stress as solely imposed by external factors, Lazarus and Folman highlight the

ors. According to the model, this process occurs in two phases: the primary and secondary appraisal. During the primary appraisal, the severity of a situation is assessed. It can be categorised as either a challenge or a threat.

While challenging situations offer potential for growth, mastery, and gain, threatening situations may lead to harm or loss.2 If a person possesses inherent confidence and has faith in their capability to influence outcomes, they

1 Cf. Lazarus, R., & Folkman, S., in Stress, Appraisal, and Coping. New York Springer, 1984

2 Cf. David W. Putwain, Richard Remedios, in Advances in Motivation Science, 2021

Whenever we face a stressful situation, our A ccording to the model, we experience psy- reaction starts with the evaluation of stress-

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Practising Philosophy Opening Act

are more likely to perceive a stressful situa- objective way.”3 This conscious process reduction as a challenge rather than a threat. es the duration and severity of emotions assowith stressors.4 Breaking free from negAfter that, the secondary appraisal follows. It ciated ative appraisal patterns involves actively and involves assessing personal and social resourcconsciously reappraising situations to avoid es such as personal strengths, family or friends falling into a cycle of worsening perceptions. to cope with the identified stressors.

The Coping Process

Following appraisal, individuals engage in cop-

Applying the Model: Example of Career Uncertainty

ing, which encompasses problem-based and Initial Situation: emotion-focused strategies. Problem-based You completed your studies and now feel uncoping includes steps to change the stressful certain about where to start and whether this situation itself, for example preparing a to-do direction is the right one. list and opposing the problem directly. Emotion-focused coping instead is about handling Primary Appraisal: one’s emotions within the situation, including seeking moral support or expressing feelings. Before

After coping attempts, a crucial re-evaluation - Identifying the situation as stressful and

takes place, allowing individuals to consciously threatening. reassess stressors and engage in more effec- Fears include losing friends, uncertainty tive coping strategies. about job suitability and anxiety about leaving the freedoms of youth behind.

The Importance of Conscious

Reappraisal

Reframe Perception Psychologists emphasise the significance of - Ask if the situation is truly a threat or could conscious reappraisal, as it often leads to less

extreme and more realistic assessments com- also be an opportunity for personal growth, pared to subconscious initial appraisals. It “in- meaning a challenge volves changing how one thinks about or ap- 3 Cf. Thomas F. Denson, Emma C. Fabiansson Tan, in Encyclopedia of Mental Health (Third Edition), 2023 praises given situation […] [and] entails taking a 4 Cf. Thomas F. Denson, Emma C. Fabiansson Tan, in step back and viewing a provoking event in an Encyclopedia of Mental Health (Third Edition), 2023

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Opening Act Practising Philosophy

After - Acknowledge the potential for personal de- - You recognize your support network and have velopment, breaking old patterns, making new an understanding of resources to overcome friends, exploring a new place, learning from this phase. work, achieving goals, and taking responsibility.

Coping Process: After - The situation is now viewed as a challenge Before rather than a threat.

- Coping unconsciously.

Secondary Appraisal: Identify and Modify Coping Before - Assess the longevity of your present coping distinguish between instrumental and - Feeling insufficient resources to face the chal- strategy, emotion-focused coping, explore alternative lenge and a sense of helplessness.

coping methods.

Identify and Utilise Resources - Ask: Can I change my situation in any way by - Reflect consciously on resources, visualising using my resources? How can my resources them as a network or a tree.

help me to deal with the situation emotionally?

After Example: - Roots: Who and what strengthens you? Who You can consciously reflect and change the

believes in you? Who or what is important to way you cope in order to find the most effective you? What grounds you? Who helped you with way to face your situation. challenging situations in the past?

Conclusion

- Trunk & Crown: What have been your past cop- Understanding and applying the Transactional

ing mechanisms? What are you happy about?

Stress Model can empower individuals to navWhat are your strengths, talents, competences, igate the complexities of a quarter-life crisis, qualifications? fostering resilience and personal growth. Con- Fruits: What are your past achievements? scious reappraisal is of particular importance in this psychological model, as it enables individuWhat are you proud of? als to gain a reflected and distanced perception - Sun: What do you aspire for in the future? of their situation, which gives the opportunity of What motivates you? a more realistic assessment of the situation.

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Practising Philosophy Opening Act

Gareth Jones: saving the memories of millions forgotten and clashing with the deniers It is important to preserve the existence of people who suffered greatly in the past, as well as those who are preserving the existence of others.

by Ken Maciej Starczewski

Every year on the fourth of November Ukrainians commemorate the anniversary of a tragedy that harmed them greatly, Holodomor. This year is going to be the 90th anniversary of Holodomor. It is important to remember that it happened and many people suffered, with a number estimated by the researchers to be between 3 to 5 million people that died during that period. However, many can easily forget about the person who contributed to exposing this atrocity to the World – Gareth Jones.

der wrote in Bloodlands: “Land, equipment, and people would all belong to the same collective farm, large entities that would (it was assumed) produce more efficiently”. Stalin’s idea was to forcefully take over the farms to increase the grain production, but also to support industrialization of the USSR. Many farmers and peasants lost their jobs and had to work in factories and due to one of the new policies of the Plan was that they had to work seven days a week.

As such, the results of the Five-Year Plan were disastrous and caused widespread famIntroduction to the tragedy ines across the USSR during late 1920s and 1930s. This was especially noticeable in It is important to explain what Holodomor is early Soviet Ukraine, where the production of grain to understand this topic. “Holodomor” (ukr. was the highest. The Five-Year Plan not only To kill by starvation) is a man-made famine

by Stalin and his Soviet State that caused mil“Jones described USSR’s State lions of people to die of starvation and malnuas “the most brutal in the world” trition. This happened as a result of Joseph where people faced many Stalin’s new Five-Year Plan to industrialise the problems such as scarcity of USSR as fast as possible by any means necfood, poverty, oppression and essary during the period 1928-1932. To en“misery among workers and sure that the plan would be successful, Stalin proposed “collectivization”. As Timothy Sny90% discontented ”

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Opening Act Practising Philosophy

“Jones condemned Stalin’s actions and collectivisation in the USSR, describing that this situation was present in every part of Russia: Volga, Siberia, White Russia, the North Caucasus, Central Asia. There was no bread, no food and people were mass starving. ”

Gareth Jones’s background and first trip to USSR

Gareth Jones was a Welsh journalist, freelanc-

er and Foreign Affairs Adviser to David Lloyd George, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom at the time. His journalistic expertise focused on European foreign affairs, the rise to power of German Nazis and the state of Russian society and the tyranny of its government. In 1930 he travelled to Moscow and then to Ukraine in August 1930. What Jones saw there shocked and angered him. In the letter to his family he shared his shocking observations of the USSR State and people living there. Jones described USSR’s State as “the most brutal in the world” where people faced many problems such as scarcity of food, poverty, oppression and “misery among workers and 90% discontented”.

This was Jones’s first trip to the USSR and Ukraine, which started Jones’s pursuit to learn more about the USSR, its terrible State and to finally discover the Soviet famines.

destroyed peasants’ properties, but also later led to the worst famines in the USSR, where millions died due to starvation and malnutrition; it is still difficult to establish how many people died as a result of Stalin’s policies.

Tens of millions of farm livestock were killed or forcibly taken away by the Soviet State, which led to the significant decrease of farm animals in the USSR. And one man, one journalist managed to expose all those atrocities to the World and brought international attention to this caGareth Jones’s last trip to USSR, tastrophe – Gareth Richard Vaughan Jones.

shocking discoveries and reveal to the World

Gareth Jones’s Family at Barry, South Wales in 1930

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© garethjones.org

In March 1933 Jones went on his last trip to Soviet Russia and Ukraine which was also adapted into a story in Mr Jones (2019). He travelled to Kaluga, 90 kilometres away from Moscow, and then began travelling by foot toward the borders of Soviet Ukraine. This allowed him not to raise any suspicion and travel safely. After writing very detailed observations in his diary and spending almost two weeks in Ukraine, Jones came back to Moscow to prepare to leave the USSR. On 29th

Practising Philosophy Opening Act

of March 1933, when Jones arrived in Berlin, he held a press conference where he was able to present his discovery to an international audience of journalists about the widespread famine that was created by Stalin through his policies. Jones then wrote an article and published it in the New York Evening Post the same day, titled “Famine grips Russia”. Jones condemned Stalin’s actions and collectivisation in the USSR, describing that this situation was present in every part of Russia: Volga, Siberia, White Russia, the North Caucasus, Central Asia. There was no bread, no food and people were mass starving.

Jones even compared the contemporary famine

to the one from 1921 which was considered to be one of the worst to ever happen in Russia at that time. Jones then penned an article “Famine Rules Russia. The 5-year Plan Has Killed the Bread Supply” which was published two days later in The London Evening Standard, on 31st of March 1933.

Jones wrote similar observations during his visit in the USSR which were complemented by various interviews with peasants and workers in different villages and cities. Jones believed that 96 percent of people from the USSR felt that Stalin’s Five-Year Plan destroyed Russian agriculture and the regions that heavily relied on it.

Walter Duranty – the Stalin’s apologist and the anti-journalist

Gareth Jones posing for photo

© garethjones.org

I t is important to know about a man who is known to be an anti-journalist figure who helped Stalin during his reign – Walter Duranty. He was an American journalist who contributed articles to The New York Times during the 1920s and 1930s. Many of his articles were downplaying the issues in the USSR as well as covering Stalin’s crimes. After Jones held the conference and published his articles, Duranty wrote a quick response. In his article “Russians Hungry, but not Starving” he defamed and slandered Jones and denied the man-made famine happening. While Duranty was denying the famine existing and many other issues the USSR was facing, he privately confessed multiple times to the British Embassy about possibly 10 million people in the USSR being dead due to the famine. In exchange for his service to the Soviet State, Duranty received luxurious food, car, sexual services from attractive wom-

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Opening Act Practising Philosophy

en, parties and such from the Soviet government. Thankfully, nowadays Walter Duranty is regarded as a Stalin’s apologist and The New York Times describes him as “one of the worst reporters”. Walter Duranty is a contrasting figure in comparison with Gareth Jones who pursued truth and impactful journalistic work, Duranty instead preferred conformity and profit regardless of casualties.

Maintaining the memory about the journalist

Gareth Jones continued his journalistic work until 1935 in Manchukuo where Jones, at the age of 30, was kidnapped by Chinese bandits and killed. It is rumoured to this day that he was killed by the Soviet NKVD. His legacy was continued by his late great niece and great nephew, Margaret Siriol Colley and Philip Colley, who made sure that Gareth himself won’t be lost to time. Till 2011, Siriol spent her life writing articles, books and his biography as well as maintaining a website dedicated to him, garethjones.org, to make sure he will not be forgotten

Walter Duranty in 1936 at a dinner with other correspondents, defended Stalin numerous times

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© garethjones.org

and that the world will keep remembering him and his work. Together with his late brother, they helped the director Agnieszka Holland with writing the script for her biopic movie about Gareth Jones, Mr Jones.

Conclusions

Jones’s passion for finding out troubles in places outside of England and endangering his life to then write truth about said problems, paints him as a true journalist and an inspiration to other people who strive to do journalistic work as well. His work allowed to preserve the existence of many people whose deaths and cries were supposed to be forgotten and silenced, to be heard about outside of the Soviet regime.

He exposed Stalin’s crimes and man-made famine that plagued almost the whole Russia and many years later dubbed the famine in Soviet Ukraine as “Holodomor” (ukr. To kill by starvation). At the same time, it is important to preserve his existence by remembering what he did and who he was. Many important figures have been overlooked and barely remembered today. It should be our responsibility to remember people like Jones considering how much he contributed in his short life.

“Walter Duranty is a contrasting figure in comparison with Gareth Jones who pursued truth and impactful journalistic work, Duranty instead preferred conformity and profit regardless of casualties.”

Practising Philosophy Opening Act

Supplementary Recommendations:

writings visit garethjones.org. I highly recomMr. Jones (2019) - For a dramatized version of mend this website to the interested as well as Gareth Jones’s discovery of Holodomor I high- researchers and academics. ly recommend Agnieszka Holland’s Mr. Jones.

It is not completely historically accurate retell- More Than a Grain of Truth – the biography ing, but it is a very well done film that presents of Gareth Jones’s life written by his late great Jones’s struggles with exposing the truth to niece and great nephew, Margaret Siriol Colley the public and discovering man-made starva- and Philip Colley. It is a very detailed biography of his short life that preserved the memory of tion with his own eyes. his existence. I highly recommend this book to Garethjones.org – for archives of articles, those who watched the movie and would like books, Jones’s diary and his family members’ to learn more about Gareth Jones and his life.

Gareth Jones in Asia, 1935

© garethjones.org

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Personal Narrative Internal Journeys

Interview with Christina Michalopoulou “When painting, I feel a whole, solid piece of material of existence, powerful yet vulnerable.”

by Leene Pärtel

I had the pleasure of interviewing Christina Michalopoulou, a Thessaloniki based contemporary artist. She experiments with a broad variety of art styles; her work can be described as a “constant battle between abstractionism and realism”.

Can you tell me about your artistic journey?

I returned to painting 7 years ago after a long hiatus. It would seem that I was gathering images and shapes during that time. I was building an unconscious archive that lived somewhere underneath my breath. They have all been pour-

Christina Michalopoulou

28

ing out since then, unstoppable, in acrylic and oil, in abstraction and hyperreal figuration, in blossoming color and start monochrome. My work is a constant battle between abstraction and realism. Creating figurative, photorealistic

“But, when I started working more and more on abstraction, I realized that people felt so much happier, more comfortable and more touched by the endless meanings, the pure feeling and the freedom of abstraction in my paintings.”

© Leene Pärtel

Internal Journeys Personal Narrative

human figures, faces and body parts on one hand, bringing them in total contradiction with A s I see it now, my realistic and figurative art hard core contemporary abstraction on the oth- has been admired but my abstract art is actualer. I am interested in desire, love, obsession, ly being loved…. sadness and elation, claustrophobia and liberation, hells and heavens.

What advice would you have for

There are many people who question whether abstractionism even qualifies as high value art. Have you experienced something like that, felt like your more abstract pieces gain less recognition in the art world?

My first steps in the world of painting were

through realism and hyperrealism. Viewers seemed to be impressed by the detail, the accurate color palette, the way a scar, or a body part, or a sight of a pair of eyes was captured on canvas... The story a body had to share with the viewer.

But, when I started working more and more on

abstraction, I realized that people felt so much happier, more comfortable and more touched by the endless meanings, the pure feeling and the freedom of abstraction in my paintings.

those trying to break into the world of contemporary art?

Be committed, be consistent and be patient.

Be organized and learn how to promote your work properly.

“My work, in general, whether it is figurative or abstract, is always challenging the viewer to confront and doubt a variety of preconceived ideas about beauty, desire, femininity, the human skin, and the movement of a body in space.”

The female body seems to be central to your work. What does the representation of the body mean to you?

My work is focused mainly on female exis-

“Cacoon”, 2019, oil on canvas

© Christina Michalopoulou

tence. My previous body of work called “Selfie” presented the imperfections of a body that has grown, a skin that bears the scars of time and a movement that whispers one’s deepest desires.

It presented in a “raw” way uncomfortable yet familiar truths about ourselves and our connection to our environment. My work, in general, whether it is figurative or abstract, is always challenging the viewer to confront and doubt a variety of preconceived ideas about beauty, de-

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Personal Narrative Internal Journeys

You said that one of the aims

sire, femininity, the human skin, and the move- of your art is comforting your ment of a body in space. own fears and insecurities. It

“I truly believe this should be the purpose of Art, to be powerful, to shout out messages, to confront fears of existence, to doubt, challenge, influence, dare and tumble.”

requires a lot of courage to be that transparent and open up about your vulnerabilities. How much of yourself do you put into your art?

I paint because it takes away fears and makes me feel protected, stronger, braver. When painting, I feel a whole, solid piece of material of existence, powerful yet vulnerable. Every hidden, subconscious emotion of fear, love, passion, Balancing the serious and the playful in your art is intriguing. How hunger, loneliness influences my work, inspires me to create, forces me to paint and spreads do you find this duality? it violently or tenderly on my canvas. Then, my I can be both at the same time. So is my life. art becomes me and my canvas becomes my escape land…

Therefore, so is my art…

The Art Space

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© Leene Pärtel

Internal Journeys Personal Narrative

Glowing Darkness

What kind of experiences or feelings do you wish to evoke in people with your art? Do you have an overarching message that you aim to convey?

© Christina Michalopoulou

“When painting, I feel a whole, solid piece of material of existence, powerful yet vulnerable. ”

Her new series was presented at the opening I truly believe this should be the purpose of Art, event of her new art gallery, in Thessaloniki, on

to be powerful, to shout out messages, to con- the 24th of November. front fears of existence, to doubt, challenge, influence, dare and tumble. This is also what If you want to find out more about Christina Mimy new abstract series “Glowing Darkness” in chalopoulou and her work, visit her art gallery progress is about. It has to do with finding light The Art Space or visit the following sources: through the darkest hours, facing your soul in website: https://www.christinamichalopoulou.com/ the chaos and staying loyal to your inner freedom even in the saddest times. instagram: christina_michalopoulou_art

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Personal Narrative Internal Journeys

Volunteering in Greece: A journey of Cultural Immersion and Personal Growth Discover profound life lessons and witness the impactful changes on personal development and cultural understanding through volunteering in Greece. by Simona Poje

In a world that is rushing towards predictability, and open-hearted people. In contrast to the po-

degrees, marriage and children we often forget about the true meaning of happiness. Before we turn 30, we achieve the perfect education, meet the love of our life and uncover the real purpose of our existence. We finally have all we ever wanted. But do we? Do these milestones truly define our happiness? Is our life really fulfilled? It is time to forget society’s expectations and delve deeper into yourself. Embark on the path of life lessons and self-discovery, answer questions you never thought to ask and redefine happiness in the land of eternal summer – Greece.

tentially more reserved cultures of North European countries, Greece offers an easygoing lifestyle and a welcoming atmosphere that fosters a sense of belonging. The slower pace of life and the emphasis on human connection create an environment where volunteers not only contribute to the community but also experience personal growth in an enriching cultural setting.

Cultural immersion

Volunteering allows you to actively explore the cultural diversity that surrounds you. Take the Become a volunteer in an ancient country with opportunity and immerse yourself in the local a rich history, warm climate, vibrant traditions Greek community, as well as embracing the unique backgrounds of the volunteers from different parts of Europe and the world. Gain insights into the richness of global cultural traditions, learn about customs firsthand and build genuine connections with people. Whether par-

Volunteers on a trip to Athens

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© Private collection

“Embark on the path of life lessons and self-discovery, answer questions you never thought to ask and redefine happiness in the land of eternal summer – Greece.”

Internal Journeys Personal Narrative

True happiness

© Private collection

“The echoes of laughter, the

ticipating in local celebrations, sharing meals feeling of unity and the taste with community members, or joining in traof freedom - these are the ditional activities, you will become an integral part of the cultural tapestry. Volunteering treasures you will carry home opens doors to new friendships, new perspecfrom your adventure abroad.” tives, and a new you. The moments shared with new people create memories that last, shaping Volunteering not only equips you to navigate uncertain situations but also encourages comyour heart and soul. munication, enhances your understanding of Life-changing competences emotional management and deepens your capacity for empathy, fostering stronger relationWorking with a diverse group of young indi- ships based on trust and mutual respect. Conviduals from different countries challenges you sistent reflection on personal progress will give to develop strong social competences. You you the ability to manage stress and focus on will learn to work with others in a constructive your goals. You will not only give but discover and flexible way, respecting cultural differenc- what you truly receive - a life changed. es and managing conflicts in a supportive and diplomatic manner. Through this, you evolve Cultural exchange through food and into a more self-aware, organised, adaptable lifestyle and compassionate individual, well-prepared to face future challenges and demonstrate cre- The act of volunteering is inherently interative-problem solving in any environment. twined with cultural exchange. Shared meals,

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Personal Narrative Internal Journeys

ken, becomes second nature. You will discover creative and meaningful ways for understanding and expressing your ideas and emotions through diverse art forms, whether in visual arts, music, dance, or storytelling. Seizing opportunities to convey thoughts and feelings through these channels enables cross-cultural communiBroaden your cultural horizons as you dis- cation, transcending language barriers and foscover valuable lessons from the communities tering profound connections with others. you serve, fostering a reciprocal exchange that “Leave the routine of life behind transcends geographical boundaries. The exand buy a flight ticket to the perience of volunteering will give you strength, extraordinary. It’s where the confidence, good decision-making abilities, cupredictable gives way to the riosity and open-mindedness. The echoes of laughter, the feeling of unity and the taste of unexpected, offering a mosaic of freedom - these are the treasures you will carry experiences that no education or home from your adventure abroad. stories, music, dances, cultural practices and daily life become powerful conduits for understanding and appreciation. In the simplicity of those moments, you find the extraordinary - a journey that not only leaves footprints but imprints on your heart.

conventional path could provide.”

New ways of developing and expressing ideas

A s a volunteer, you become an integral part of a community enriched with diverse nationalities. Embracing a new family, their cultures, languages and different customs, you learn to articulate emotions, feelings and thoughts in various nuanced ways. You will create bonds and connections that will last a lifetime.

Recognizing the influential power of words on perceptions, emotions and interactions, you will learn to choose language thoughtfully and responsibly, ensuring that your communication is not only effective but also respectful and inclusive. It will allow you to absorb new knowledge, exchange ideas with others and provide you with a foundation upon which your further learning will be built.

Throughout the project, active engagement in The impact of volunteering on

effective communication, both written and spo- personal growth

Discovering new ways to express ideas

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© Private collection

The challenges and rewards encountered during work lead to increased self-awareness, independence, improved resilience and a heightened sense of purpose. You undergo firsthand experiences that test your adaptability - from acclimating to new faces, tasks and environments, you will often find yourself navigating unfamiliar situations and embracing unexpected challenges. A crucial lesson learned within the project is the skill of prioritizing physical and emotional

Internal Journeys Personal Narrative

neously enrich your life. The act of giving back gives a sense of fulfillment and creates a symbiotic relationship, benefiting both the volunteer and the community. Through this incredible experience, a deep appreciation for the simplicity Leave the routine of life behind and buy a flight of life is developed - from the warmth of shared ticket to the extraordinary. It’s where the pre- moments, the profound impact of a kind word dictable gives way to the unexpected, offering and for the diverse world we live in. a mosaic of experiences that no education or “Remember, the greatest joy lies conventional path could provide. You’re not just making a difference; you’re becoming the differnot in what you possess, but in ence in someone else’s story. what you contribute.” well-being. You will come to recognize the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between work and self-care, a vital aspect of your personal and professional development.

Conclusion

Volunteering is a life-changing experience that extends beyond the act of giving one’s time and energy. It is a journey of personal growth that shapes you, changes your perspective on the world and provides a unique opportunity for cultural immersion. As you collaborate with locals and contribute to the well-being of the community, you foster a sense of equality and simulta-

Flight ticket to extraordinary

I invite you to step out of your comfort zone,

start dancing with the unknown and finally reveal strengths and resilience you never knew you had. Find your happy place amidst the olive branches and azure seas of Greece and leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who embark on this meaningful journey.

Remember, the greatest joy lies not in what you possess, but in what you contribute.

© Private collection

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Personal Narrative Internal Journeys

Quarter-Life Crisis “Entering ‘Friends’: Season 1

by Mariami Gatenashvili

‘You’re a shoe! You’re a shoe, you’re a shoe, when you grow up?’ Already at the age of 6 and you’re a shoe!’ And today I just stopped and I said, ‘What if I don’t wanna be a shoe? What if I wanna be a- a purse, y’know? Or a- or a hat!’ is what Rachel said to her father when she started realizing that she could choose her own life path and not conform to her family’s or society’s expectations.

for the next 12 years, we know what awaits us. 6 years of primary school, 3 years of middle school, and another 3 of high school (in Greece). During these years, various expectations for our future are formed, either from the people around us or from ourselves. But what happens when one finishes their studies?

Since before starting school, we’re asked to Many at my age (25 years old) go through, or

answer the question: ‘What do you want to be have gone through, the same crisis I experi-

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Internal Journeys Personal Narrative

enced. Theoretically, you have the knowledge and skills to enter the job market. However, witnessing how society really functions makes you realize how much more complex things are.

This is where doubts arise about whether you’ve made the right choices, and everything you had confidently planned for the future becomes uncertain and seems like a distant dream.

Dear diary,

Since I was 13, I had decided I wanted to become a sports journalist in Barcelona. By the age of 22, I would have already had a significant career and would be fully independent abroad.

One of the reasons the collision with reality was so challenging for me was my long-held confidence in all of these scenarios.

In the first case, theoretically, the problem was Covid-19. Nevertheless, I decided to do remote Erasmus studies. Although a psychologically demanding experience, I can say I learned a lot. However, if I had gone to Valencia, I would have faced an even more significant problem. Citizenship. Due to my Georgian citizenship back then, I couldn’t stay in the country for more than three months. I found this out two weeks before traveling to Malaga for my internship in sports journalism. The bureaucracy was quite complex and costly, so at that point, ‘I didn’t even have a pla-’, as Phoebe answered Monica when the latter asked if she had any plan for her future.

“I had many expectations but significant ignorance of risks and reality when making all these plans.”

There were numerous times when I felt like I was disappointing my 13-year-old self. I had A lthough it took me a while to overcome it, many expectations but significant ignorance of during that period and due to how things turned risks and reality when making all these plans. out, many positive things happened, such as traveling a lot and meeting significant people I studied journalism at the Aristotle Universi- for me. Perhaps ‘everything happens for a reaty of Thessaloniki. Despite wanting it for a long son’ is true after all. time, the first two years raised several doubts about whether it was the right choice. When I The description overcame it and realized it was the right decision for me, another obstacle emerged. One of My experiences are just a small example of evthe most challenging moments I went through erything that can happen to individuals during was failing twice to do the university’s Erasmus, their quarter-life. Some of the things that a either for studies or for an internship. young adult might experience during their quar-

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Personal Narrative Internal Journeys

ter-life crisis are: anxiety, questioning the deci- to think about it, and i push myself forward to sions made in the past, trapped in an unpleas- earn more money, basically. ant situation, feeling uninspired and feeling pressured by society. This, though, can be to a Ioanna, Greece: I am 25 years old, and I have greater or lesser extent for each person. studied political science, which was my first choice. I never had a specific dream job, but Quarter-life crisis around the world when I had to decide what to study, political sciseemed like the best option. Right now, I I asked young people from various parts of the ence can’t imagine my future clearly. It’s easier for world to tell me about their experiences. me to envision myself traveling than working Bryan, Brasil: I am 23y.o. and I have studied because I still haven’t decided what I want to journalism. […]. For me, it is important to have a do. The fact that I like traveling is kind of disorijob that I feel creative and have the opportunity enting for me when it comes to deciding what to express myself towards my work, writing and kind of job I would like to pursue. producing content. And I don’t think I will reach Simona, Slovenia: I am 27y.o. I’m not one of that working for a newspaper. However, I don’t those people who knew from a young age what know where the future will lead me so we will they wanted to become when they grew up. A see. I imagine my future having a job that gives me the opportunity to travel and connect with different people, with different cultures. I try not

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Internal Journeys Personal Narrative

few years ago, I enrolled in the dietetics study, but wasn’t sure about my decision. However, after getting my degree, it seemed like my dream profession. Not so long ago, my life was completely different from what I live now. I was following the goals that society expected from me […] but I viewed life narrowly and didn’t see the opportunities opening up around me until I experienced some disappointments in both my professional and personal life.

A t a certain point, something within me

changed. I started questioning myself - Who am I? What do I want to become? Is my behavior aligned with my values? Do I really want to conform to society and its expectations? Is this

come the best version of myself. Of course I’m only human, and sometimes I fail. Nevertheless, each day is a new opportunity for change.

Alice, Italy: I am 23 years old and I have stud-

ied Chinese language and literature. Since I was younger, I’ve always dreamt of studying many languages and becoming a translator. Now I started my master’s degree in Chinese-English translation and interpreting but now I am not sure of my choice and I am pretty sure that translating is not what I want to do in my life. I don’t imagine my future now, I don’t really know what I will do but I don’t exclude the possibility of moving abroad, because to cope with this I travel a lot and meeting new people and making new experiences helped me broadening my per-

predictable life truly fulfilling, or am I just afraid to go out of my comfort zone? Am I clinging to old habits out of fear of the unknown? I knew it was time for significant changes.

[…] My future is currently I try to look at things from

a different perspective. I don’t force anything; I just accept the current situation. I try to be aware of myself, my thoughts and actions, striving to be-

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Personal Narrative Internal Journeys

spectives and I hope it will help me in the decision of what I want to do in the future.

Charley, Taiwan: I am 28yo and I have studied

accounting. Since I was 9 yo, I wanted to become a vet. I still want to do that, but sometimes I feel like I’m too old to invest this much time and my only option is to keep doing what

“Who am I? What do I want to become? Is my behavior aligned with my values? Do I really want to conform to society and its expectations? Is this predictable life truly fulfilling, or am I just afraid to go out of my comfort zone? Am I clinging to old habits out of fear of the unknown?”

I’m doing now, which is being a salesperson. I can’t imagine my future clearly. I’m starting to consider other jobs I could do or other subjects to study. To cope with this, I travel and do whatever I feel happy having achievements for example playing piano to fulfill the needs.

Something to remember

Although this quarter life crisis may sound bad and scary, it has many positives. It is a period when one can reassess many things to understand what is best for oneself and one’s future, both professionally and personally. From this experience, someone can emerge much more certain about themselves and their capabilities.

‘Welcome to the real world. It sucks. You’re gonna love it,’ is what Monica says to Rachel the day her quarter-life crisis started.

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Historical Journeys Personal Narrative

Cyprus: Existence in a Divided Island of Contrasts The past and present of Cyprus interwoven with personal memories and anecdotes of the poet and writer Neşe Yaşın

by Luise Meerheim

“My father says: Do you love your fatherland? A History of Coexistence, Colonial

My fatherland has been split in half, which part Intervention and Escalating Conflicts must I love?” – Neşe Yaşın After 400 years of peaceful coexistence beCyprus, often touted as the European island tween Turks and Greeks, Great Britain colonised paradise, is paradoxically one of the most mil- the island in 1925. The British colonial dominitarized places on Earth. This article explores ion used a divide et impera strategy to fuel conthe intricate history and current state of the is- flicts among the two communities, positioning land, highlighting the deep-rooted division be- themselves as mediators. This tactic aimed to tween its Greek-speaking Orthodox majority create dependency and prevent a united front and the Turkish-speaking Muslim minority. As against foreign domination. The consequences we explore this complex history, the article in- of this plan manifested dramatically after Cytertwines historical insights with the poignant prus regained its independence and had to face personal narratives of Neşe Yaşın, a poet and several socio political crises, some of them still writer who lived through the tumultuous events not solved. Makarios, the first President of Cythat shaped Cyprus and has been the first Turk- prus after the end of colonial rule, pursued an ish Cypriot to run for the parliament of the Re- independent policy, while many Greeks on the island preferred the union with Greece. Simulpublic of Cyprus in 2006. taneously, there were different positions within the Turkish population, with some advocating for cooperation and an independent Cyprus, and others supporting separation. Tensions between the two ethnic groups escalated, leading to an intra-Cypriot civil war between 1963 and 1964. A climax of these disputes was the Bloody Christmas, during which Greek nationalists killed many Turkish Cypriots and imposed blockades around Turkish Cypriot enclaves, cutting off residents from vital resources.

Neşe Yaşın

© Women in Conflict Zones

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Personal Narrative Historical Journeys

a big shock. The idea in my mind that we “I clearly remember the Bloody Christmas was were the victims and Greek Cypriots the perpe-

events. I remember the day all the villagers gathered in our house. Everybody was terrified. We did not have much food. When I wanted to go upstairs to pick my dolls, I saw men with guns in their hands.” ~ Neşe Yaşın

The Explosive Year of 1974

trators had changed. Then I realised that the other side of the island was not accessible anymore.

Peristerona was now a village further than the stars. The invasion in 1974 changed the whole paradigm for Cyprus in my mind. I realised that evil does not have a nationality.” - Neşe Yaşın

The tensions did not diminish and in 1974, the Two Realities of Life: North vs. South powder keg exploded with a coup by Greek naIn 1964, the United Nations deployed peacetionalists against President Makarios, trigger-

keeping troops along the Green Line that diing Turkey’s occupation of the north. This event vides the island. The border crossing remained led to the founding of the Turkish Federate impassable until April 23, 2003.

State of Cyprus and later to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, that is just recognized No permission to cross in reality it is the traces as a sovereign state by Turkey itself. of hope which disappear days spent in longing turned to grief Don’t wait for me in the oth“My beautiful island has become a place of have er cell of sorrow ~ Neşe Yaşın crimes and illusions. I started writing poems about the war in Cyprus.” - Neşe Yaşın S ince then, that conflict has not been rein fact only a ceasefire exists between The residents that lived in ethnical mixed vil- solved, the northern and southern parts of the island.

lages were forced to evacuate. Greek Cypriots fled to the southern part of the island, Turkish Cypriots to the north - an ethnic segregation occurred, leading to an enduring social and cultural isolation between the two communities.

“I realised that evil does not have a nationality.”

Neşe Yaşın and her family were also forced to move from the once mixed village they lived in, Peristerona. They relocated to Katakopia and received the house of Greek Cypriots who had been resettled to the southern part of the island.

“I will never forget the moment we entered this house. The owners of the house were staring at us. I felt we were like thieves. What I experienced

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While the southern part of the island is still advertised as a holiday paradise in tourism magazines, the capital of Cyprus, Nicosia, paints a completely different picture of reality: it is the last divided capital in the world. Barriers, barbed wire, and a UN-established buffer zone still exist. Within this demilitarised zone, time has stood still since 1974: abandoned houses where people who had to flee left behind all their possessions, without the premonition of never being able to return. A popular example of this is the city Varosha. Before 1974 it was a thriving holiday paradise that invited tourists from all over the world to swim and relax.

What’s left of it today? Cement ruins, empty cafes, hotels without holidaymakers, restaurants without guests. A ghost town that has never recovered from 1974.

Historical Journeys Personal Narrative

The division transcends physical barriers. The Challenges to Reconciliation north, occupied by Turkey and unrecognised internationally, operates as a separate entity with Intergenerational trauma stemming from masits language, government, military, time zone, currency, and school system. Although the northern part of the island is not recognized under international law as a sovereign state, Turkey is in control of the area: it provides the mobile phone network for almost the entire population, is responsible for water supply and infrastructure.

Settlement policy and economic investment have turned the northern part of Cyprus into a kind of Turkish province.

“I believe that the most important hope is the human potential in Cyprus.”

Forbidden Zone: Varosha

sacres and hostilities after 1960 hinders reconciliation. Many still mourn loved ones lost in the conflict, with people on both sides still missing.

The strategic importance of Cyprus, both historically as a trading hub and presently with significant natural gas deposits, adds complexity to the prospect of reconciliation. Despite these obstacles, lots of people still engage in reconciliation attempts.

“I believe that the most important hope is the

human potential in Cyprus. On both sides we have an important number of people who believe in a United Cyprus and to a mutual existence on the island.” ~ Neşe Yaşın

© Getty Images/ Sean Gallup

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Local Life Cultural Enrichment

The Mediterranean Lifestyle: Nourishing Body, Mind and Soul A scientific exploration unraveling the transformative potential of the Mediterranean lifestyle and its impacts on health by Simona Poje

The Mediterranean lifestyle is a unique blend of dietary habits, cultural traditions and a distinct approach to daily life. It emerges as a multifaceted paradigm, starkly contrasting the fastpaced, often high-stress lifestyles common in Northern European countries. A holistic philosophy rooted in centuries-old traditions creates a profound synergy among its key components.

Each element contributes to the creation of a broader mosaic, fostering mental and emotion-

A map of countries bordering the Mediterranean sea

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al well-being. As you delve further into this article, you will discover a wide range of habits and traditions that shape this unique and beneficial way of living.

The Mediterranean diet: Exploring a culinary journey to health

The Mediterranean diet, nutritional way of eat-

ing based on the culinary traditions of Greece,

© Canva

Cultural Enrichment Local Life

Siesta

Italy, and other countries that border the Mediterranean sea, stands as a pillar of the Mediterranean lifestyle, celebrated for its health benefits and adaptability. It embraces a wide spectrum of plant-based foods, featuring whole grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits, nuts, seeds, herbs and spices. At the heart of this dietary pattern is olive oil, often referred to as the liquid gold of the Mediterranean, serving as the primary source of added fat. While fish, seafood, dairy, and poultry play moderate roles, red meat and sweets are included occasionally.

Moreover, embracing the Mediterranean diet involves more than just selecting the right foods; it’s about mindful consideration of portion sizes and meal frequencies, requiring a good understanding of this dietary approach.

© Canva

vascular disease, metabolic disorders, and certain cancers. Additionally, it promotes healthy aging and is consistently associated with lower overall mortality. Further benefits include a significant impact on mental well-being and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease, although further studies are needed in some cases to confirm these findings.

Siesta: More than a nap

Siesta, a tradition deeply ingrained in Greek

culture, transcends its superficial definition. It’s not just a pause for rest; it’s a moment to recalibrate amidst the rhythm of the day. In the embrace of the Mediterranean, where sunny days prevail, Greeks often retreat to shaded areas, seeking refuge from the midday sun, and fosBeyond its culinary aspects, the Mediterranean tering a connection with both the environment diet gains popularity due to its deep connec- and their inner selves. tion to the region’s long-standing healthy eating habits. It plays a protective role against This practice has a huge cultural significance noncommunicable diseases such as cardio- but also extends beyond tradition. A midday

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Local Life Cultural Enrichment

nap, as seen in the siesta, reveals potential health benefits that intertwine with the fabric of daily life. Research indicates that it is potentially contributing to improved cognitive function, emotional well-being, and overall health.

It can also enhance memory consolidation and problem-solving abilities. Furthermore, a quality nap contributes to emotional resilience, reduced stress levels and an improved ability to cope with daily challenges.

nection with the natural environment and fostering a holistic approach to health and overall well-being. Regular movement and exercise don’t just impact physical and mental health, but also foster a sense of accomplishment and contribute to overall vitality and longevity.

The sun shapes the lifestyle of the Mediterra-

nean people, enhancing mood, alleviating depression symptoms, regulating circadian rhythm, fostering healthy sleep patterns and promoting Outdoor recreation in the overall well-being through vitamin D production.

Mediterranean: Nature’s health boost Adequate levels are associated with a lower risk of diseases, including osteoporosis, certain canIn the beautiful landscapes of the Mediterra- cers and autoimmune disorders. nean, lifestyle is inherently intertwined with nature. The region is blessed with an abun- While the sun offers numerous health benedance of sunlight, creating a climate that calls fits, it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of to outdoor exploration. Walking along the san- caution in sun exposure. Excessive sunlight can dy coast, hiking through ancient olive groves have adverse effects on the skin and health, inand swimming in crystal clear water are not cluding premature aging and an increased risk just recreation, but an integral part of everyday of skin cancer. Finding a balance and taking life. The dedication to outdoor activities is wo- precautionary measures, such as using sunven into the culture, reflecting a profound con- screen and avoiding prolonged exposure during

Walking along the sandy coast

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© Canva

Cultural Enrichment Local Life

Cherishing moments with friends

© Canva

peak hours, is really important. In the pursuit of the Mediterranean lifestyle’s health advantages, risk of heart disease. Additionally, stress reducmaintaining this delicate balance ensures the tion positively influences the immune system, enhancing its ability to ward off infections and well-being of both body and skin. diseases. Embracing an easygoing lifestyle fosters a greater appreciation for the present moEasygoing lifestyle: Fostering a ment, contributing to an overall higher quality quality life of life.

At the heart of the Mediterranean countries an easygoing, relaxed and stress-reducing ap- Conclusion proach to life runs seamlessly through the daily lives of its inhabitants. Time moves at a gentler A s we unravel the layers of the Mediterranean pace and simple joys, such as cherishing mo- lifestyle, it becomes evident that its principles ments with loved ones, savoring delicious meals hold transformative potential. Adopting eleand appreciating the beauty of nature, take prior- ments of this lifestyle can serve as a compass guiding those seeking a path toward a healthity over the constant rush of modern life. ier, more fulfilling and less stressful life - a life Scientific insights highlight the profound bene- inspired by the timeless wisdom of the Mediterfits of stress reduction on overall health, align- ranean. Whether through embracing the nutriing with the Mediterranean philosophy of em- ent-rich Mediterranean diet, incorporating outbracing life with tranquility. Positive effects of a door activities into daily routines, or adopting a less stressful lifestyle extend to cardiovascular more relaxed approach to life, each choice behealth, with lower stress potentially contribut- comes a step toward a lifestyle that nurtures ing to decreased blood pressure and a reduced body, mind and soul.

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Local Life Cultural Enrichment

Interview with Dimitris Pavlidis Tell Me What You Own, I’ll Tell You What You Are

by Alix Ibar & Lale Khoshnoud

Our lives are, among other things, marked by How would you describe your role as an an-

the objects that surround us. Whatever our relationship to objects in general, our furniture, our clothes, our books, our knick-knacks, have a lot to say about who we are. Dimitris Pavlidis is the owner of an antique store, in the neighborhood of Agia Triada. In his small family shop, which he runs with his wife and daughter, the space is saturated with his finds, magazines, coins, books, furniture, cameras, jewelry, family photos... A veritable museum that reveals its secrets through the excavations of passers-by, who let themselves be carried through places and times.

tique store owner?

This job is really important to me, not only

because it provides us, as a family, profit, but also because through the antique stores, some collections, and museums are enriched.

We can show to people what has existed be-

For how long have you been doing this?

As an amateur for over 30 years, professional-

ly, over 10 years.

What made you choose this job?

Apart from securing my livelihood, it is a way

to always find new things, and you get to learn about culture and history, and discover how our society is evolving.

And how did this passion for antiques start?

As a child, I had two items in my room, a coffee

grinder and a coal iron, that I found in a bazaar, I took with me when I left the family house. And then the two items became more…

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An old toy hiding in the depth of the store

© Lale Khoshnoud

Cultural Enrichment Local Life

fore, so younger people can learn and older classic way we also find items online and in bapeople can remember. zaars in Greece too.

What kind of customers usually come to your store ?

Has your store changed throughout the years?

We have some regular customers, collectors Our store changes on a daily basis, meaning

that by selling an item, for example at the front who always try to find something different for of the store, another one has to replace it. This the enrichment of their collection, so they vishappens with all the items, because all of them it us regularly. But we also have people passing are for sale, this happens all the time. by, who ask questions and they are interested by the items in here. And we can really see each person’s interests, for example, there are items that interest young people, that may be books, small items, vinyl discs also, they’re very popular. However, older people come as well, not only to enrich their collections, but also to buy furniture, lamps, or something to decorate their house, because the items we have here maybe remind them of a taste that they can’t find in the big shops anymore.

The view through the facade of the © Lale Khoshnoud antique store

“We can show to people what has existed before, so younger people can learn and older people can remember.”

How do you find the items ? From where are the items in your collection?

With which criteria do you select the items?

Their condition, first of all. Secondly, if I think

other customers will find it interesting. Sometimes, we shop by having other people in mind, in a way that we think they would like the item.

Third of all, the price.

We saw that you have items that are more per-

sonal, for example we saw some photographs

We don’t find the items ourselves, rather the or papers that belong to someone. What might

items find us. But there’s different ways to find those objects: either people call us and we go to their houses for a garage sale, or people come here with specific objects that they want to have appraised. Some people have passed and their relatives aren’t able to fully manage the items, so the items come to us. Or in a more

your relationship be with items like these, taking into consideration their history or your feelings about them?

A photograph, as strange as it might seem, speaks. It always has something to say. So, it’s not only the family photographs, that they

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Local Life Cultural Enrichment

sometimes show us the clothing, the hairstyles, the shoes, everything in general about the time the picture was taken, but also a different kind of photographs that might show us landscapes, events that were happening, city spots, that show that some other time in this space something else existed, such as old cinemas, stores, etc. So I am very interested in those, very interested in collecting those photographs and paper, because those are usually not what the inheritor chooses to keep. They usually keep some personal items that they never give away, but papers can be embarrassing, they’re not able to keep them, so they get to us, and we are now in charge of those testimonies in a way.

“It’s like a trip that doesn’t stop, you keep traveling all the time.”

A glimpse of the photo collection

© Lale Khoshnoud

bond with the items on a personal level, only on a professional level.

Is there an item here that has a special sto-

ry behind it?

All of the items have a special story ! Just like all

of the items need something special to enter the market, meaning that no item comes in the condition to be sold. We always have to fix something, repear a piece, or colors to revive… However, all of the items have their own history, all of them have something to “say” and “show” us, some of them with their beauty, some with their art. Personally I don’t buy, and that is really important for me, I never buy an item that a person does not want to give away, because I think that this item will never “travel”. We take items that their owner does not need anymore, for various reasons, he doesn’t need them anymore.

Dimitris Pavlidis, bringing an old wooden box back to life

© Lale Khoshnoud

Is there a specific item that you have or had Do you have any plans for the store? that was of particular value to you?

There are many many many plans for the store.

On a personal level, I don’t want to get attached Many many plans and dreams! These are the

to items ever. I do not collect items for personal use, but for commercial use only. I do not mind buying it, to sell it. It’s a way to make a living through this item. I absolutely do not form any

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motivation each morning to come here and work. A new day is here, we come here, every day is different, with many plans and many dreams. This never stops. I wish for the peo-

Cultural Enrichment Local Life

ple in general to come to our stores, it’s not as expensive as they think it is. And to the young people, to do this job, they can make a living off of it, and stores like these are needed in the area. I’m proud of what I am doing and I think it’s a chance to be in the position to witness so many pieces of life.

What is the relationship of young people with antiques, based on your experience?

There are people who, and I see this, knows, and people who don’t know how something works, from a technological standpoint. For example now we may have CDs, in previous years we had vinyls. For someone who has never come across music playing from a vinyl, or a cassette, or to watch a movie differently than we do today, all of this seems strange to them.

However, through stores like these, you can discover the “how” and the “what”, without so much money.

well. But the difference with these tools is for this to be made, coins were used, meaning that somebody took two coins, one is from the ottoman empire, the other one is greek, from 1930, it’s 5 drachmes1 they cut them, they made them tools. In the past, people invented some things because they were poor, so they could create what they needed.

Old kitchen tools to cut dough

© Lale Khoshnoud

How are you able to identify this kind of infor-

mation about an item?

From the past..

Yes! If you do not go back, it’s possible that We don’t know everything of course, so we al-

ways read and get informed ! This is an important part of the job. The internet really helps us.

For example, an item comes to us and using a signature or some clue, we can find its age, manufacturer, everything… The internet really helps us a lot! Recognition is really important to us, before selling the item. We do not sell without control, we do not want to charge a lot, but to receive S o for example these are two kitchen tools, whatever the item is worth, the price that it dethey are used to cut dough. They exist today as serves. My wife is dealing with this: she discovers all the information about an item, so I can “I’m proud of what I am doing explain to the customer what the item is about. and I think it’s a chance to be in And by doing this, we learn so much, we discovthe position to witness so many er things that you could never imagine.

you may not be able to go forward. This is what I think.. You have to get to know the past a little bit, to be able to move forward. And it is really important, because that is history. You never stop learning. Never, ever, ever ! It’s like a trip that doesn’t stop, you keep traveling all the time. Wait a second…

pieces of life.”

1 The old greek monetary system

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Local Life Overcoming struggles

Sometimes I Think About Dying How does social ties impact mental health?

by Romain Copette

At the beginning of November an important her. Soon, both of them will start to share mo-

cultural moment for the city of Thessaloniki and our volunteers happened: The Thessaloniki International Film Festival. For 10 days most of us, Balkan Hotspot Volunteers, went to watch some of the movies which were screened at the festival. The movie I saw is called “Sometimes I think about dying”, an intriguing title for a very intriguing movie.

The film stars Daisy Ridley (Rey in Star Wars’ last trilogy) as the main character. “Sometimes I think about dying” depicts the story of Fran, a young working woman, who doesn’t seem to have any social life or social skills at all. She is giving the viewer a sense of loneliness throughout the movie, she barely has any interaction with her coworkers and is always seen alone in her house and environment, even at work.

Her life starts to change when she meets Robert, her new co-worker who seems interested in

ments, a dinner and even a kiss.

Robert is trying to get to know her through their

interactions, but she is giving him a hard time since she doesn’t seem to know how to communicate or comprehend what he finds in her.

Being used to living alone, not having any links with her family (if she still has one), always working by herself and never really interacting with anyone in the workplace or only when it’s necessary, creates a situation in which she doesn’t have any social ties or connections with anybody. This explains her difficult relationship with Robert and the difficulties he has to reach her.

“Fran is lonely, but actually she might be suffering from something far greater - depression.”

While some people sometimes look for lone-

liness, Fran appears to have always only lived in solitude and doesn’t know any other way of living; it may seem painful from a viewer’s perspective but not for her. She thinks about dying, which appears to fulfill her dreams, creating a sense of confusion from a viewer’s standpoint.

That sense of loneliness is not just a feeling,

Fran in her everyday work life

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© Point Productions/Saks Picture Company

during the movie; as viewers, we understand that

Overcoming struggles Local Life

Fran is lonely, but actually she might be suffering about similar topics but they show different from something far greater - depression. perspectives and narratives.

When Robert appears in her life, he also appears in her dream, showing that their connec- With a great direction and beautiful photogration makes her rethink her wish of dying. This phy, making every shot in the movie appear as can be explained by the fact that “the con- if they are paintings, Rachel Lambert (the directacts between people might play a role in tor) takes us through the journey of a woman protecting them from depression” accord- who might just be your neighbor or your coworking to a study from the health observatory of er, making every moment of the movie real in its own way, even in the dreamy moments of Fran.

Hainaut (in Belgium).

This study also shows that “the mechanism I personally really liked this movie. I think it’s

of social isolation acts directly but also retroactively to keep and increase the impact on mental health”, that’s one of the reasons she might not understand why Robert is trying to get close to her.

Even if everybody experiences depression differently, all her symptoms hint to it. “The isolated persons are more frequently subject to psychic issues such as depression” as shown by the health observatory of Hainaut.

mainly because the subject speaks to me in a way. ‘Sometimes I think about dying’ is a personal experience, the movie appeals to me because I can understand through my personal life what Fran is living through or feeling. The movie, through shot selections and a slow rhythm, gave me a feeling of loneliness, putting an emphasis on Fran’s mental state and social life. It reminds us how important social ties are in a person’s mental health.

Taking a subject such as mental health and so-

cial life is always a risky path when it comes to shooting a movie. Another good example of movies exploring mental illnesses would be “Silver Linings Playbook”, a movie talking about depression through the character of Pat (Bradley Cooper) whose life shifted after his wife left him. In this case, the movie depicts the aftermath of a relationship and the effects it had on the main character. These two movies speak

Pat Solitano (Bradley Cooper) and © The Weinstein Company Tiffany Maxwell (Jennifer Lawrence) in Silver Linings Playbook

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Local Life Overcoming struggles

Interview with Christina Evgenidou Dedicating your existence to improve the living conditions of vulnerable women by Alix Ibar and Simona Poje

A t Irida social center, solidarity is spread, Can you tell us what is the mission

paths are crossed and stories are shared. Different backgrounds, different points of view, different sensitivity… Christina is the head of Protection and Safeguarding at Irida, she has been working to improve the living condition of women for several months now.

What did you want to become when you were young and what inspired you to work at Irida social center?

When I was young, I didn’t have a lot in my

mind. I think I mainly wanted to become a princess or a teacher. I never thought of becoming a psychologist, which is my bachelor’s degree.

And as the years were passing by, I decided that psychology is what suits me best. But, growing up and slowly, slowly, I decided that psychology is what I should do in my life. I decided to work for Irida maybe a few months ago. Well, actually, I always wanted to work for Irida because it’s a great organization that supports women.

Why did you specialize in women’s protection ?

I don’t know if you are aware of what is happen-

ing here in Greece, lately. But there is a lot of violence against women from their husbands and a lot of gender based violence in general. So I decided that since I am also a woman and that it affects me as well… Or not affects me, but maybe concerns me, I decided that I would like to work for an organization that supports and protects women.

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of the center and how are you contributing in supporting it?

The mission of the center is dual. First of all, we want to protect women. So we have a protection sector that consists of a social worker, a psychologist, two lawyers, and myself. And we also have a livelihood program, which is mainly what we aim for the women to be integrated in society. So it has volunteers and teachers that can teach our ladies : Greek, English, German, computers, sewing lessons, and in general any kind of activities that would help them empower themselves and be an active part of the community.

In what ways do you see the center making a positive impact on the lives of the refugee women?

So by learning Greek they can integrate better

in the Greek context. By learning English, they can integrate anywhere and by learning German, which is most of the people’s destination country, they can start fantasizing about their journey after leaving Greece. In the meantime, the protection services can help them in a different way.

In the way that they can feel safe here in Greece, they can have a house, they can overcome the trauma, they can finish all the legal aspects of

“Out in the society, they’re all alone.

And by making friends here at the center, it means that automatically they are not alone anymore.”

Overcoming struggles Local Life

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Local Life Overcoming struggles

their papers, they can have their passports, etc..

And of course, let’s not forget their safe space for children. The women can come here with their babies, leave their babies in our children’s safe space and move around freely.

environment. And this is also something that can help in feeling safe and building trust, not only between the women and the staff, but also among the women in collaboration with other professionals at the center to provide interdisciplinary support.

How do you approach building trust and creating a safe space for them? Can you tell us what strategies or techniques can you find effective Working with women who have experienced in helping women cope with strong trauma can be very challenging. We have a va- emotions and heal from their riety of ways to gain their trust and be able to experiences ? support them and help them. We’re always very honest with our capacity, what we can do and what we cannot do. And we never set high expectations for our women. So in that way the women always know what to expect from us and knowing what to expect, is something that can help in feeling safe. And we try to create a community where the women not only refer to us, but they refer to each other as a supportive

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We try to engage our women into doing various activities and socialize with other women. We have a lot of events, like music events and food events so each woman can show us aspects of their culture, the women can know each other better and in that way they can find common ground to become friends by sharing.

They have almost the same experiences and

Overcoming struggles Local Life

“Way the women always know what to expect from us and knowing what to expect, is something that can help in feeling safe. ”

come here for a few hours, but out in the society, they’re all alone. And by making friends here at the center, it means that automatically they are not alone anymore.

Can you highlight specific programs or initiatives that have been this is very important because they can help particularly successful or impactful ? each other out, even more than what we can!

We can provide the expertise in the legal matters and social aspects and psychological support. But the actual supporting system is the women themselves. They are women who are vulnerable, women who are in need, in any way or another. It’s important because they can

S ome of the programs that have been particularly successful and helpful for our women were some cooking lessons that we have.

The ladies of our program were gardening every Friday, they were cooking a different meal from a different country that was accompa-

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“The name Irida, is a Greek word, meaning spectrum of every set of every shade of color that makes up light. ” nied with music from the country and some information about the country that helped them a lot to reconnect with their culture. It’s also a way to help other women connect with another culture and also find similarities that help to create this community feeling that we want to create. Women are continuing to do it by themselves even when the program was over, and that’s why we think that this is a great success.

How does the Women’s Center emphasize the importance of understanding and respecting various cultural backgrounds in the services it provides, where there may be some challenges or tension that you have to face between the women involved in the center ?

teract and grow together. We understand their abilities, their differences, and try to cohabitate.

What would you say that this, are the key challenges faced by the Women’s Center? And how can the community contribute to overcome these challenges ?

And some of the challenges that the center is facing is, first of all, lack of space. We have a lot of activities that we have in mind and a lot of people that we support. And unfortunately we would need some more space for them to fill. It’s very difficult to find some space with privacy. We have a lot of activities in our mind that we would like to start, but unfortunately, lack of space is something that is always challenging. Another challenge that we face is sometimes the low participation in some of our projects, when you are facing a huge trauma or you have other legal priorities, survival priorities, taking part in an activity is not on your top list obviously.

The last question is, can you share a memorable experience or success story from your time working with Understanding and respect are two very im- the women at the center ?

portant aspects of our work here. We respect all our women and we celebrate diversity, and we also require from all the members of Irida, to respect them and respect each other the same way we do. It’s important to say here that actually the name Irida, is a Greek word, meaning spectrum of every set of every shade of color that makes up light. And this means that we chose this name because it reflects and celebrates the diversity of women that are part of our community. It represents the idea of this center being a place for women of all nationalities, backgrounds, of different skills, that in-

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A memorable experience from my time work-

ing with them is, when one of our ladies finally gave birth to her baby and she called us, telling us how happy she was and that everything went fine. Just to give you a little bit of background, we were having a lot of tests and appointments and doctors, whether the baby would be fine or not. And when she finally gave birth and everything was fine, we were also very happy and the baby was healthy and the mother was happy and safe, and that is one of the most memorable experiences…

Overcoming struggles Local Life

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Mix Fix Seeking the essence of existence

Inhere part of the city

by Leene Pärtel, Lale Khoshnoud

We are all just sleepy little starving kittens Roaming the streets

Searching for a home and some answers Only to find temporary comfort and a refuge in

each other ..

© Leene Pärtel

© Leene Pärtel

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© Leene Pärtel

Seeking the essence of existence Mix Fix

© Lale Khoshnoud

© Lale Khoshnoud

© Leene Pärtel

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© Leene Pärtel

© Lale Khoshnoud

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© Lale Khoshnoud

Seeking the essence of existence Mix Fix

Timelaps

by Alix Ibar

She’s sitting on the ground.

She wondered, Pictures all around, faded colors.

As she contemplated this stranger Faces she never saw, stories she’ll never hear.

Captured by the lens of an anonymous Who are they ? photographer, Medical record. Factual information.

What lives had crossed hers.

Date of birth, death, size, weight, eye color. What laughter had resounded in the echo of her days, What remains of us when we disappear ?

What tears had irrigated the furrows of her face.

A young girl is smiling.

She was a stranger, The photo was a piece of time, frozen in time.

But in this mystery shared by all beings, A snapshot that captured the ephemeral, She became surprisingly familiar.

The immaterial.

In the silence of this frozen image, The features of the faces, the shadows on the In the mystery of her eyes, walls, the objects on the table.

Everything remained as it was, She’s losing herself, Unaltered.

Trying to hear the unspoken words, And this smile, Of this silent history, Seemed to hold secrets, Whose deafening echoes, That only centuries could know.

Holds the greatest mysteries.

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Seeking the essence of existence Mix Fix

sonder

by Leene Pärtel

Hi, nice to meet you. you are my next victim I know you now, devour your being, collect your soul We stand so close. enough to brush my fingers against Don’t you worry, i will place it nicely on my shelf I purposely bump into you, mutter “oh, my bad” With all your deep colours and contradictions “it’s okay,” so polite, so kind For me you will always be just a doll I take notes in my mind. skin you to your shadow I painted you a personality, projected a mind Steal your way of standing, breathing And you will never even know

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Mix Fix Seeking the essence of existence

La Puoi Fare Una Cosa Fatta Bene Per Favore?

by Alessia Mancino

La puoi fare una cosa fatta bene per favore?

Lui dice che è pieno di dubbi, io credo che ci

sia molto caos

L’altro giorno pensavo che magari costruire un puzzle potrebbe essere d’aiuto Poi ci prendo il pezzetto dell’ambizione e lo metto a scaldare con il latte Che si sciolga e mi esca dalle corde vocali mentre urlo con la voce da fantasma Non so se a te è mai successo di vedere tantissime cose e di non farle mai Ti dipingi piena di energie ma poi le disperdi a guardare tutto da dentro E sembra che fuori non esca mai nulla Di quei ruscelli ancora ben scavati Pieni di terra arida, che aspettano l’acqua e

aspettano aspettano aspettano aspettano

E si dicono sempre che magari bisogna solo

che arrivi l’anno buono

E poi tutto scorrerà, Con trasparenza, con gioia, con voglia.

E’ il trascinarsi di tutte le volte che non ho

saputo, che non ho voluto e che mi sono impigrita

Ma anche di quando giustifico tutto quello

che scelgo

Ma anche avere troppi corpi intorno Ma anche inciampare sempre su se stesse

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Senza darsi mai una vera spiegazione, Una che abbia un senso emotivo più che

logico,

Una che si comprenda con la pelle d’oca E con le lacrime che corrono al contrario,

rientrano negli occhi e ti fan vedere tutto lucido, tutto chiaro, trasparente, ovvio.

Ho sentito dire spesso che nella vita si può cambiare strada Io è qualche anno che ne corro un paio alla

volta e mi chiedevo se poi alla fine nell’intimità della propria stanza uno non viva più che altro in un bosco, in una selva, in un lago, in un deserto, in una qualunque distesa di scelte prese, cose fatte, occhi guardati

Ti identifico con quello che ti vedo fare e dal successo che porti in giro, Poi non lo so bene quante lacrime piangi quando l’occhio di bue si spegne, i tecnici vanno a casa e ti ritrovi in un teatro vuoto.

L’altro giorno ti sei messo a ridere e mi hai detto che a venticinque anni non si può avere una crisi esistenziale.

La crisi dell’esistenza.

Il tuo amico invece qualche mese fa mi ha

detto che non ero io.

Allora io mi chiedo se la crisi è anche della mia essenza. E che cosa voglia dire muoversi come mi muovo io. Alla fine se il corpo è l’unica cosa in cui viviamo, ci si può mai davvero perdere al suo interno? E quanto può essere profonda una crisi del genere?

Seeking the essence of existence Mix Fix

Can You Do Something Well Please?

by Alessia Mancino

Can you do something well please?

Without ever giving a real explanation, He says he is full of doubts, I think there is a lot of chaos One that makes an emotional rather than logical sense, The other day I was thinking that maybe building a puzzle might helpful One that can be understood with goosebumps Then I take the piece of ambition and heat it And with tears running backwards, they fall with milk

It melts and comes out of my vocal cords as I scream in a ghost voice I don’t know if it has ever happened to you to see so many things and you never do them

back into your eyes and make you see everything lucid, everything clear, transparent, obvious.

I have often heard that you can change your path in life I’ve been running a couple at a time for a few

years and I was wondering if in the end in the

You portray yourself as full of energy but then privacy of one’s own room one lives more in a

you waste it looking at everything from within

forest, in a lake, in a desert, in any expanse of choices made, things done, eyes looked at

And it seems like nothing ever comes out I identify you with what I see you doing and Of those streams still well dug the success you bring around, Full of arid land, waiting for water and waiting, Then I don’t know how many tears you cry

waiting, waiting, waiting

when the light goes out, the technicians go And they always tell themselves that maybe a home and you find yourself in an empty theater. good year will come The other day you laughed and told me that at twenty-five you can’t have an existential crisis.

And then everything will flow,

With transparency, with joy, with desire.

It’s the dragging of all those times I didn’t

know, I didn’t want, I got lazy

But also justifying everything I choose But also having too many bodies around But also always tripping over themselves

The crisis of existence.

Your friend a few months ago told me that I

was not me.

So I wonder if the crisis is also of my essence. And what it means to move the way I move. In the end, if the body is the only thing we live in, can we ever really get lost in it? And how deep can such a crisis be?

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You Feel Everything Inside but You Can’t Tell

by Alessia Mancino

It’s almost winter in my thoughts, it’s chilly but Dear reader, not freezing, our hands are cold so we clasp I was born under the name Alessia, but I like it them together. There are colourful leaves on

more when people call me Alina, it feels more the ground, it’s that time of the year when the trees are getting undressed but are not comspecial to me. pletely naked yet. We walk for almost an hour, If you’re reading this page, I would like to offer you smile a lot, I find it beautiful and a bit inyou a little journey with, and into, me. I will try to timidating. You’re wearing black pants, a brown vintage jacket and a fascinating blue jumper. It pour down some feelings into words. has some yellow lines and grey squares on it.

I highly suggest reading these pages with some You tell me it’s your grandfather’s and we start background music, it should be a calm, relaxing talking about our families. Such a complicatmusic, some piano songs or any playlist that ed topic to start knowing each other, right? Or you find emotional. Let’s be clear, I don’t mean maybe the simplest? How would you describe to make you cry, of course, but sometimes in your family with just one word? order to feel to the fullest, you need to make some adjustments to your environment. It’s like It’s my turn to reply but luckily we’re now standing when you enter a cinema, you need to turn off in front of the door of my house, it doesn’t have your phone and switch off the lights to really an address because I change it almost every year, enjoy the movie. So now I’m asking you to fo- sometimes even twice a year. The door is closed cus on some nice music and switch off every- but it’s never locked. I let in mostly strangers. thing else that creates any physical and emoI make you a warm cup of tea, it smells like cintional noise. namon and honey. It’s four in the afternoon and If you accept to have a little walk through my we eat a chocolate brownie. We both change thoughts, you can start by trusting me, I can into comfortable clothes, because they are the hold your hand, start walking and at some point warmest and I refuse to wear uncomfortable clothes at home.

I will maybe even take you inside.

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Seeking the essence of existence Mix Fix

It’s almost sunset time, it’s getting dark fast, world that the room contains. Have you ever real-

so I turn on some of those little orange lights you see in the movies, those that you can find only in young people’s houses because they are cheap and create a nice mood in the room. I light some candles, I have a lot at home, especially in the living room. Some smell like gingerbread and some like lilacs, I don’t know if it’s a good combination but that’s all I have.

ised how many things can happen between four walls, between a floor and a ceiling?

I’m sitting on the floor, on the big carpet that

covers most of the room. You ask me to dance with you, but I like to watch you, so I stay where I am. Your stomach is getting warmer, you see me disappearing, a dissolving figure, you close your eyes.

How do you feel when you stare at a candle in the darkness? How does that little light make Your arms start drawing little waves, small you feel? If you close your eyes, can you still streams running through your limbs. Your shoulders and chest are slowly opening, you feel its warmth? Its smell? feel a flame between your collarbones and your And how do you feel if we put on some music lungs, you keep moving your upper body at and turn up the volume to our favourite songs? the rhythm of the music, to let the flame sink You’re in this room, the candles are there, mov- in and expand further and further inside your ing, but still in their little nest. The music slips body. Your shoulder blades take over and start from our ears to our stomach, you shiver, but controlling the direction of your arms and head you feel warm. You stand up, slowly moving and pelvis and legs. Every movement you’re doyour feet, you start twirling around yourself, very ing starts from the back, a little bit like in life, very slowly, small steps, one after the other. Your the past decides your present, that determines arms embrace you, you hug yourself, then you your future and so the flow of your direction open them up, your twirling speeds up, your head keeps changing according to the part of your hangs looking at the ceiling, you’re open to the body you’re choosing to move first. You are let-

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Mix Fix Seeking the essence of existence

ting go of control by choosing what is leading probably not with me. What landscapes are you seeing? Which colours? What thoughts are inand what is following. fluencing your body? Will you ever stop moving It reminds me of something my therapist told and start crying? Or laughing? How does your me last week, about loving and being loved, mind shape your body, how does your body about giving and receiving. I see you having shape your mind. that continuous compromise in your own body and it is giving me so much hope. How commu- I can see your legs getting heavier as they nicative can someone be, when they’re dancing open up, your roots are so deep and yet you’re so free. Do you realise how much physical alone. Not performing, just dancing. strength you need to have, to look so light and I have a feeling that sometimes people rely so graceful? To look beasty and disorganised? To much on the aesthetics of dance and don’t re- collapse on the floor and stand up in a split of ally understand how much of an inside work it a second? To create all the images you portrait is to be expressing yourself through dance. The when you think of a dancer? All the strength continuous permission you’re asking yourself that comes from the vulnerability you’re showand not knowing what is going to happen the ing me, is leading you to the floor, you spiral, second after, but also choosing it all the time. you caress the air, you push the floor and the To let go of your own judgement and connect to ceiling, you push the walls, your sky is everythe deepest desires your body and mind have. where and you’re swimming it with every inch How many impossible scenes are you seeing? of your skin. You’re running in an open field, Are you still in the same room I am? Where is arms open, shiny eyes, naked skin, it’s cold and your mind wondering? It is probably not here, it’s warm, it’s sunny and it’s raining, it’s every

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Seeking the essence of existence Mix Fix

feeling in the world and you’re creating it. You feel nature all around, the presence of all the liv- you want to scream it, sometimes you want to ing beings, you feel powerful, you feel long, you mute it. It’s always your call. It can be painful. It feel like you belong. can be the most joyful moment. It can change You bounce repeatedly on your legs, you’re in inof ait.split of a second. And you’re not in charge a rave, the colours keep changing in the dark, your friends are there, you wear sunglasses be- I don’t know for how long you’ve been danccause that’s what people do now in raves. You ing, it could be five minutes or two days. You’re gotta look cool. The music bounces back in sweaty, tired, energised. You open your eyes. your bowel. Minimal moves, minimal feelings, You look into mine. You know I can’t see all of you have a little bomb ticking inside, it will nev- it, but you’re smiling and you’re confused. Your er explode and you know it. It’s there and you eyes are wet, you feel emotional and you know keep it warm with your polite bounces, you feel I can understand. everything inside but you can’t tell. Continuous set backs on your chest, keep it chill but keep You take me to the rooftop, we fall into a hug, it going, small changes of directions, arms go- we have a slow dance in front of the whole ing up to catch some air, and then back on your world, yet no one can see it. I fade, disappear sides, flying around like mosquitos, to twirl bet- again. The only thing we need is knowing we ter, to add flowers in the woods. You’re a beast exist, even in different places, in different moin a baby’s body. You feel everything inside but ments. And we dance for the world. It’s an unyou can’t tell. You feel everything inside but you seeable act of love. Go to your safest place, and can’t tell. This is your world. And sometimes dance for yourself.

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Mix Fix Seeking the essence of existence

“How many impossible scenes are you seeing?”

by Lale Khoshnoud and Alessia Mancino

© Lale Khoshnoud

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Seeking the essence of existence Mix Fix

© Lale Khoshnoud

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“Have you ever realized how many things can happen between four walls, between a floor and a ceiling?”- Alessia Mancino

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Seeking the essence of existence Mix Fix

© Lale Khoshnoud

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© Lale Khoshnoud

© Lale Khoshnoud

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Seeking the essence of existence Mix Fix

© Lale Khoshnoud

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© Lale Khoshnoud

© Lale Khoshnoud

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© Lale Khoshnoud

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“I fade, disappear again. The only thing we need is knowing we exist, even in different places, in different moments. And we dance for the world. It’s an unseeable act of love. Go to your safest place, and dance for yourself.”- Alessia Mancino

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Seeking the essence of existence Mix Fix

© Lale Khoshnoud

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Balkan Hotspot Team Alessia Mancino,

Alix Ibar , 26 years

Friederike Schulz, 18 years old, Germany

Iryna Stryha, 22

25 years old, Italy

Ken Maciej

Starczewski, 27 years old, Poland

Leene Pärtel, 19

years old, Estonia

old, France

years old, Belarus

Lale Khoshnoud, 20 years old, Germany Luise Meerheim, 19 years old, Germany

Mariami

Gatenashvili, 25 years old, Greece/ Georgia

Simona Poje, 27

Svenja Kesseler,

Uxío Fernández

18 years old, Germany

years old, Slovenia

Ferrás, 23 years old, Spain

Romain Copette, 22 years old, France

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General Directors: Editors: Aristodimos Paraschou Leene Pärtel, Christian Cibba Alessia Mancino Graphic Designer: Anna-Maria Diamantidou Find us: www.balkanhotspot.org Usb_ngo.gr

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The volunteers responsible for this publication are hosted in Greece in the framework of the European Solidarity Corps.

This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This publication [communication] reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission can not be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.