The Impact of Parenting, Upbringing, and Self-Discovery
I’ve only truly discovered myself later in life, reflecting on how upbringing, circumstances, and the people around us shape our paths in this ever-changing world.
Perception, Compassion & Injustice: Lessons from Music & Life.
Perception often shapes injustice and misunderstanding. Songs like “Brothers in Arms” by Dire Straits, “Hurricane” by Bob Dylan, and “Here’s to You” by Joan Baez challenge how society judge’s others. They highlight how unfair perceptions can lead to wrongful accusations. My mother, with her deep compassion, saw beyond the label of “Crazy Dien”, a woman misunderstood by our village. While others judged her, my mother treated Dien with kindness, embodying the importance of forming our own opinions. Her empathy taught me that true social justice comes from looking beyond surface judgments and understanding people's struggles. Music and personal
Reducing War and Fear: Ethical Choices, Arms Industry, and Productivity for a Peaceful 2025
The constant fear of war, driven by geopolitical tensions and the arms industry's profits, deeply affects productivity, creativity, and human well-being. Small families, overpopulation, and automation complicate global dynamics, while media amplifies fear. To reduce conflict, we must reject arms investments and prioritize ethical choices. A peaceful 2025 is possible through cooperation, not violence.
Europe’s Natural Gas Crisis: Qatar LNG Supply, Rising Prices, and the Impact on Poverty.
Should Europe do without liquefied gas from Qatar after the holidays? Will natural gas prices rise so sharply again? Will these rising prices cause another wave of poverty to fall across Europe? It seems as if prosperity has had its best time for many Westerners. Of course, one day there will be a stabilization of wealth over the entire world population, not hoping that it will be fought in wars.
Nature Conservation in Baarn, Netherlands: Challenges for Staatsbosbeheer
Baarn, a scenic town in the Netherlands, offers beautiful natural areas like De Stulp and De Kuil. However, Staatsbosbeheer struggles with enforcing rules to protect these spots. Despite fees from mountain bikers, violations such as off-trail riding, dog issues, and littering remain widespread. Limited resources and staff hinder proper oversight, threatening the area's natural beauty and wildlife protection.
Medicine Theft in Dutch Healthcare: Opiates, Dismissals, and Addiction.
"Healthcare in the Netherlands faces rising medicine theft, with over 50% linked to opiates. Hospitals report dismissals amid shortages, addiction concerns, and evolving staff challenges."
Terrorist Bombing in The Hague Leaves Six Dead, Four Injured
Bomb attack in The Hague kills six, injures four. Police suspect terrorism. Rescue teams continue search. Queen Maxima and King Willem-Alexander visit site.
Rising Online Fraud: Protect Yourself This Holiday Season
Online shopping faces growing fraud risks, with 350 million euros lost annually in the Netherlands alone.
Robert Jensen’s Comeback: Baudet on Automation and the Future
Robert Jensen, former Veronica host, now hosts a podcast with controversial politician Thierry Baudet, discussing automation and the future.
Questioning Faith: Catholic Church Scandals, Martin Luther’s Reformation, and Exploring Hinduism & Buddhism.
Explore the moral dilemmas of faith, trust in religious institutions, and the search for spiritual truth. From questioning Catholic Church scandals and child abuse cover-ups to exploring Hinduism, Buddhism, and reformers like Martin Luther, this reflection delves into finding personal integrity and meaning in religion. Discover how faith, morality, and justice intersect in your spiritual journey.
