How I look at democracy

#215

me in mirror / Berlin, Germany / 01 February 2015

My Dear Friend of Democracy,

Why do I write you a letter every day? Usually with a photo.

I want to explain.

As you might know, I am worried about democracy. Like so many people. That democracy could erode and disappear in my country, Germany. As it has done here before. As it has done in so many countries.

So I ask myself: What are the reasons? And above all, what can be done about it?

I look for answers in my daily life.

I like to travel. And I always travel with a camera. For many years. I have learned that when I take photos, I look more closely. Why are some streets in a city dirtier than others? Are the city cleaning resources used differently? And if so, why? - Why are the two halves of a semi-detached house painted entirely differently? Is this accepted individual freedom, or is there a neighbourhood dispute behind it? – Why are no chairs on the sidewalk in front of the open café on this sunny day? Has the city banned it, or is the owner simply lazy?

You ask yourself a thousand questions when you face the world.

As I said, my concern for democracy has grown. As I stroll through life, new questions have arisen: Where is community spirit and free living visible? Where are people respected? Where not? How is open society evident in public spaces? And where are its enemies revealed? Above all, what can we learn from seeing all this?

I want to learn. And I can do that best when taking photos, thinking, and writing. That's why I'm writing to you a daily letter.

But not just because of that.

I also want to connect with you. Because democracy will only survive if many people want it to survive and if these many people connect.

And also this: I'm very glad you're reading me. Sometimes, you even answer. Then I'm thrilled.

See you in Europe,

Johannes