Author: Claudia

Daily writing prompt

What’s a topic or issue about which you’ve changed your mind?

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Let me begin by stating very clearly, that it is not my goal to potentially make enemies here today. But, I am entitled to my opinion as much as the next person. You, dear reader, are certainly entitled to dislike and disagree. What I am writing about is specifically tailored to the goings-on here in Germany. No offense intended towards anyone!

Generally, I still stand firm by my belief, that people in need, no matter the reason, should be offered help, shelter and security. However, judged by the numerous problems and challenges we are facing these days it becomes apparent -to me, anyway- that we’ve been way too tolerant and lenient for far too long. – It is very important to mention at this point, that the majority of refugees here in Germany really do a fantastic job with integration, they accept our way of life and respect our cultural differences. – But what about the men and women who refuse to integrate themselves? They won’t learn our language, may get involved in criminal activities, instill disrespect towards teachers and women in general into their children. They come here with high expectations, even impudent demands in some cases. For example: My mom took in a woman from Africa and her young daughter. Nothing we offered her was good enough. We gave toys to her daughter to play with. They ended up in the bin, while she went out and got very expensive things instead, even though her financial budget was very limited. Such ungratefulness and discontent was very disappointing and difficult for us to understand. I could list several similar examples just from people in our social circle. Some refugees get here, thinking, that a nice apartment, a car and job are just waiting for them to arrive. Where do such expectations come from? Anyway…
Due to a different cultural and/or religious background, there have been issues with women being harassed because here, they don’t have to hide. They are not secondary to men, they are allowed to do and wear what they please. Especially younger men continue to have difficulties with tolerance and respect towards our way of life. And that is unacceptable. I know I’m coming around the bend with a highly overused example, but if German people were to seek refuge in those countries, I doubt very highly, that the locals would be even half as tolerant towards us. I truly hope to be wrong, believe me.
Excessive tolerance and being too lax about enforcing rules, or dealing with disrespect and misconduct accordingly from day one, backfired in due time and is not conducive with regard to living together peacefully and with mutual respect. Everyone is welcome in Germany. But the desire to live here comes with responsibilities and the expectation on our end, that rules and regulations are being adhered to. For our politicians it is high time to be more strict about reinforcing both. Although some say, that we may have lost control already a few years ago and that it’s a little too late now. And that right there is something, that frustrates me to no end about Germany. We always react to the “damage” already done, instead of being proactive. Because heaven forbid we offend anyone or are viewed as intolerant by other countries.
Okay, I’m done. Hate me if you have to, but have a lovely weekend regardless.

PS: I may not have been able to get my thoughts and views across clearly and properly. I’m sorry if I failed at doing so. And again, no offense intended towards anyone.