I don’t have classes at university anymore. In a few months I move out, I’m already decluttering and sorting stuff out. Yesterday I gave 3 big bags and a box full of art supplies to the neighboring nursing home, and I’m selling clothes online. So, it’s a phase of good-byes.

But on the other hand, it’s a big new phase of hello: I’m writing my first book for a publisher! I’ve submitted articles to a publisher before, but now, I get to write my own full work, so it’s a whole new level. And the cool thing about it is, it came to me unexpectedly: I had seen a new Christian magazine about sustainable living and thought “maybe I could write articles for them”. So, I wrote them a mail with some sample work. And a few weeks later, the book department of that publisher contacted me. And they were like “we saw the email, we like your topics and writing style. Would you write a whole book about sustainable living?” I jumped up from my desk and actually did a little dance. “… but don’t get ahead of yourself” I thought. So, the mail correspondence went back and forth a little, but a concept and some business calls later, it was the real deal! Contract signed, in the mail kind of deal. And now with the thesis out of the way, I’ve started writing. And it’s really fun!

So, what’s the details on the book? It’s going to be in German, it’s from a Christian perspective, and it’s a non-fiction book for adults. The German title is “Mitgestalter Gottes” (literally “God’s co-creator”, possible English title “Kingdom Cultivators”). The topic is “living and shaping life/the world in community with God”. In other words, being a Christian is a status and power instead of a list of rules. As Christians, the belief is that we are created by God for more than just “be good and go to heaven”. We are here to shape creation in community with him and others. So, that impacts everything from private relationships to taking stances against racism and for protecting the environment”. The book will be a mix of stories, biblical inputs, and practical ideas. To write, I’m staying at seminary until end of July, to do research. Then, after a break at home in August, I’ll go visit relatives in the US from September-November to continue writing. I have until February 2022, then it comes out in August 2022. Such a gift and privilege!