Journey
For everyone who reads this text it is quite remarkable. In doing so you actually call upon all of your ancestors in the great tree of life who have in their way contributed to your being. Great obstacles have had to be overcome and in many respects your birth and life to date are special. Sometimes, it is only through loss or misfortune that you actually realize the millions of things that make this life what it is.
In life, we all struggle in one way or another. The playing field is not always fair yet, no matter how difficult our current circumstances may be there is always someone or some people who are facing greater challenges.
The Alpine Peace Crossing through the Krimml Pass, Austria in 2012 was an opportunity for me to walk alongside others united in a common goal to pay respect and acknowledge those who had made this journey in harsh circumstances in 1947 as refugees.
I listened to the stories of current refugees who walked with me, their hopes, dreams, worries and the many trials and tribulations they faced. In listening, I learned a very great deal and recognized that although they had travelled great lengths to arrive here in Austria that their journey in many respects had only just begun.
There are refugees living in Austria and elsewhere who are stateless or without papers. For many, they will have to journey further to find refuge. For others, their outward journey is over in that they are secure, safe and have started to build their existence. No matter, where these people are on their journey it is worth acknowledging what they have overcome and the inner journey they undergo on a daily basis coming to terms and realizing all the realities they have and will face.
Sometimes, one may feel overwhelmed just listening to these stories but, in the end the fact that you have actually listened with heart and real compassion will have given hope and helped to acknowledge the bond of humanity that unites us all.
For further information or to provide financial support contact:
www.alpinepeacecrossing.org
www.fraubock.at