“How do people in life crises, or when life is turned upside down, manage not to despair but to draw strength and hope? Which resources and strengths do they find and activate?” This question was posed by full-time and volunteer staff of the Caritas Association Saar-Hochwald and the deaneries of Merzig and Losheim-Wadern. They spoke with people who have experienced a loss, undergone a serious illness, or still have to cope with physical, mental, or other types of impairments. Since last week, their answers have been displayed on posters around the Cloef Atrium, near the parking lot at the Baumwipfelpfad. They are meant to encourage visitors to reflect and inspire readers to find and activate their own “sources of strength,” meaning sources of motivation and meaning, in order not to lose their footing in busy and difficult times. On twelve banners, summaries of the interviews along with photos present an impressive array of stories and possible “sources of strength.”
Mayor Kiefer, together with representatives of Caritas and the interview partners present, viewed the new exhibition in Orscholz and praised the idea and the commitment of the people who voluntarily care for the sick, dying, and grieving. He hopes that the exhibition will also serve as inspiration and motivation for visitors in difficult times.
Anja Salinger had also made herself available for an interview. She also took part in the opening event of the exhibition and spoke in an open, touching manner about her cancer illness and the diverse support from those around her. She is faithful and, despite illness and discomfort, can find joy in many things. "I do not count the time I still have," she explained, "but I enjoy every day of my life." She never focuses on the things she cannot do, but solely on her possibilities and opportunities.
The Caritas Association Saar-Hochwald e.V. is a recognized welfare organization of the Catholic Church operating in the districts of Merzig-Wadern and Saarlouis. With its seven social stations, four day care facilities, as well as its outpatient hospice and palliative care counseling centers and advisory offices, the Caritas Association Saar-Hochwald e.V. supports people in need with its comprehensive counseling and care services. The Caritas Association Saar-Hochwald e.V. was founded in 1930 and currently employs around 600 full-time staff members, supported by over 1,000 voluntarily engaged helpers.
The exhibition "Sources of Strength in Life" is expected to remain in Orscholz until the end of September. More background information about the exhibition "Sources of Strength in Life" as well as about Caritas Saar-Hochwald can be found at www.caritas-saar-hochwald.de and on social media. On its YouTube channel, Caritas Saar-Hochwald has published the worthwhile interview series about the exhibition.
