Father John turns a lot upside down: that must do that – and even the concept of God. In his book “Nothing has to do something”, the Benedictine monk argues for a radical repentance in thinking – less function, more existence. A conversation about nothing and the healing power of silence.
“Krone”: Father Johannes, her book is called “Nothing” (20 euros, edition Platin). Have we forgot to do nothing?
Father John: Yes, but it’s not about “doing nothing”, but “Nothing has to do!”
How is it?
Because we don’t know what “nothing” is. Because we don’t know what “does”. And because we don’t know what “need” is.
The following question about the subject “Need”: how do I realize that I have to do something?
This is an incredibly difficult question, because you constantly have to decide: when are I responsible in a situation – and when not?
Why is it so difficult for us to just be without justifying us?
Many people do not treat themselves on a break, they just act, feel constantly committed to something and at some point they no longer know what to do. They feel completely overwhelmed, throw everything down and say, “Now I don’t do anything anymore.” I didn’t want to write a book for helpless lazybound, but a book that motivates people to find a new attitude towards life. It is about free yourself and others from this permanent pressure.
When someone retires, they are immediately asked: “And what are you doing now?” The actually interesting question would be: “Who are you?” If someone takes a walk, it is immediately justified – with health, fresh air, movement. Just walking seems to be indecent today.
When we meet someone, we often ask, “How are you?” But the second question follows immediately: “And what do you do?” If someone says, “I don’t do anything,” many react disappointed – although that is often their secret wish: ever nothing to do.
What is this “nothing” for you personally?
It is the great secret and I call it God. For me, God is nothing on the one hand and everything on the other. It is this border area between the two that represents the fulfillment of life for me. Then I sometimes say: it doesn’t really matter if it’s nothing or all. Some people call me atheist – but I am not. This is exactly where life takes place: in this space.
“I don’t have to participate”
You write that you have to learn to say no. At the same time, I have the impression that we live in a society in which everyone only looks at themselves. Do we really want to live in such a world?
If you only understand “no” as denial and delimitation, you have not understood the principle. No-sages is often confused with refusal-this is wrong. “Nothing” does not mean to escape from life, but to go in the middle of it. To be there. It is aimed at very active people. But it also means: I don’t have to participate, not running after every trend.
Jesus died on Good Friday. Do we have to celebrate this day and use it to pause?
Good Friday confronts us with pain, cruelty and shock. The question is: do we flee from that – or do we let ourselves be transformed? This decision is the turning point. Some theologians say that the resurrection started at the time of death. I also believe that: if we come to the deepest point of our existence, something new can open. The fear of death is real – because of the pain because of being alone. But it should not prevent us from accepting this point.
“Silence confronts me with myself”
Many people are also afraid of silence. What would you advise?Silence is not a resignation of silence or silence, but confronts me with myself and life. She wakes up a lot in us that we would rather not see. That is why a lot of noise – a distraction. But silence is also full of wisdom. She tells us everything – when we are ready to listen.
We celebrate the resurrection on Holy Saturday – a new beginning. How does he succeed? Through very simple things: consciously breathing, consciously seeing, hearing, smelling, tastes. Resurrection is a sensual experience. Easter means life and giving with all your senses. My favorite saint, Hildegard von Bingen, said, “Look in the green.” This is not banal advice, but a call for perception. Observing what is growing – also what is still hidden in the manure. Even the manure HEAP is one of them. And hopefully we discover a green branch there. An Easter walk is therefore not a small issue – it is a symbol of life that breaks open again.
Nowadays we often show changes about external sports, diets. The interior is hard to see. Is something confused?
Yes, we perform a real “Fasting-Making Theater”. Some proudly say that they have lost three kilos or have not drunk alcohol for weeks – as if they had to justify themselves. But really fasting means: make a little less of everything. No exaggeration – just less and more aware. Many are less afraid of this – even if they are good. They are even afraid of getting healthy.
Body and soul are a unity and not separated. Every cell is inspired. It is important to move wisely – but not to fill a table. Glück’s happiness cannot be determined with the blood pressure monitor.
How do I know if I am happy?
Because of our senses – and especially because of the sixth sense: through the heart. Not the muscle, but the inner center of our lives. Happiness is shown in two harter experiences: gratitude and joy. Who is grateful is on their way to healing and happiness.
What can people who cannot do anything with the church or God, but can get them out of Easter?
Simply put: perceive life. Anyone who has problems with the term “God” can replace it with “life”. Be real life – that’s a religious experience. In the garden, in children, with sick – even while dying – it is sometimes felt what wears us. That’s grace.
And if you could give the readers a single sentence – which would be?
Listen to the gratitude and joy in you. That does not mean that everything must be perfect. But if you discover this, you know the Easter joy.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
