A true explorer of the soul
“When we change the story people live by into the story of ‘we are one with nature’ we could live sustainably.”
After Brussels we, me and my soulsistah Ashley, stayed at a wonderful house close to Mechelen. The beautiful balance that can exist between generations and styles of living is felt on these family grounds. Grandma, grandson, mum & dad live harmoniously on the same land, which is large but not big as you think one would need for 3 generations to live together.
Grandma has a neat, manageble appartment with family visiting and present when needed. Parents have the main house with plenty of space and comfort. Son Stijn has a very peacefull open little space in which he greets travelers, friends and souls to come and join his community existence for a while.
The vegetable garden gives abundantly and Stijn goes dumpster diving for the rest of his needs. He writes and thinks about the meaning of life and the state of society, but especially how and why to contribute. He works as a handyman / work councillor for people who have trouble getting / keeping jobs. His employer is a green, socially engaged, positively attributing company and he is usually excited and happy about his work.
We were part of this house for a week. A lot of beautifull people came and went and we certainly felt at home with this style of community living. No real organisation, just a man living a beautiful life and actively attracting people to share documentaries, food, cooking, music, thoughts and feelings. The homeliness of the surroundings make everyone at ease (even the most nervous of souls find a spot), and the natural authority that Stijn carries is one of great sweetness and relaxation. No one would want to cross or be unsocial, because they all love the guy. It can be as simple as that.
It helps, i guess, that all togetherness is temporary and all have there own home, or travels, to return to after their stay.
To feel good and whole about staying here me and Ashley and Stijn were thinking of what our contribution could be. We are very lucky that Ashley is a gifted artist who feels open to creating a beautiful mural with me for on the walls of the bedroom. I was also blessed with the opportunity to cook from the garden for a whole bunch if people.
A few books Stijn recommends reading:
‘A more beautiful world our hearts know is possible’ by Charles Eisenstein
A stunning book on the ‘transition’ for all who love philosophy, new world thinking and changing their lives for the better. “A leader is someone who creates opportunities for others to give their gifts”. I really agree with that statement and after being with Stijn is his own community centre I have seen how this also works in action. Read it if you want to be moved.
‘Ecovillage. 1001 ways to heal the planet.’ Ed. By Kosha Joubert and Leila Dregger.
A intercultural collection of community stories. Very powerful and extremely inspiring. I kept trying to read it but then there were such interesting conversations and people or I was inspired to write that I still didn’t read a single page 😦 anyone interested in communities or ecofarming should get it though it looks very inspiring and covers all the world and cultures!
In Love with People 