MG | I think it was my unobstructed view from outside which did it; I saw what they did in Nepal with chemical fertilizers which were partly financed by the World Bank – they used them in excess quantities, not only because they do not understand the instructions for use enclosed; sometimes the bags are open when they transport them; so insecticides and pesticides can penetrate into their life environment. When I had the occasion to visit the Sekem farm with their organic-dynamic farming principles, in Egypt in the desert with my manager, I knew for sure: We want to do a similar thing. In Nepal, they also profit from the Nepalese farmers’ ancient old knowledge how to treat the soil and nature well; and this knowledge is being used by our old gardener who passes this knowledge on to others. The number of pests in the fruit garden of our first property could be reduced; and we could harvest more and more healthy fruit and vegetables for our kitchens in order to feed many people. We also use solar energy to reduce current costs, we were able to build a biogas plant which is fueled from the toilets and from the manure of our four cows; plant residues are used for the production of bio-briquettes for emergency cases where biogas is needed for cooking and will not suffice to heat hot water too. Eight employees have a full salaried job now.

DKM | How are the Shanti facilities financed in Nepal?

MG | Below the line, everything is only possible with donations. A number of facilities, such as the sick station, toilets and others have been financed by organizations such as the German Embassy, The Rotary Club and Lions Club, and even some individual donors. It was a big surprise and lucky event for us that we were given 500,000 euros by Hape Kerkeling, the entertainer, who had won this sum on our behalf in a “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” TV VIP quiz show. From this money, we could buy a school bus and, what is even better, a piece of land where we build a clinic, workshops, a kindergarten and a large kitchen. We even found a waterway there, and could build a fountain where the residents of the surrounding slums can get free water – this led to a reduction of more than 60% of cholera and typhus cases. It is, of course, difficult to secure financing for current operations: we would need ca. 30,000 euros per month. Regular donors cover this need with approximately 12,000 euros; the provisions only last for eight months, however. This is why I am travelling so much to offer information and ask for support for our project.

DKM | So your work is based on regular financial help from Europe?

MG | Money is the basis – like earth for plants; that is for sure. But the important thing is what happens between people: What people need there, again and again, is being together – this is how I define globalization; it means that you pass your experience and options on to others. This is a mutual process, as I see it, and I infinitely profited from it, and it has influenced many people in Europe since, I am quite certain. I think not least of all the people assuming godparenthood or a sponsorship; and of all the individual donors who say: I share and offer something – the loving old ladies, for instance, who gave up sitting in a café with their friend, so supporting us with standing orders; of the church communities, and many, many more.

DKM | It is always rather surprising if you see what can become of a small original impulse, like the one you had.

MG | You are right; and this is what encourages us. You need not say I alone can do nothing. The first step, even an emotional consternation, is always followed by other steps. This shock imparted by circumstances is one of my agents; and the awakening from this shock and contemplation and the search for a means to help another one. This is what humanity means – we are able to see things in the future, we can analyse a situation and plan and look for solutions accordingly. You can tell me that I am not concerned in a way – but it is my own will if I push away the misery I am aware of, or if I approach the problems and try to relieve them with the resources I dispose of.