We humans have landed in a colossal storm due to outdated navigation. Even though we saw bad weather coming we never expected it to be a storm like this. And now we find ourselves in the midst of it. The ship on which we sail creaks eerily and is thrown back and forth wildly. Its sails are torn, frothing waves attack the bow and we are convinced there are not enough life rafts. Fear has taken hold of us.  

So we fight for the best seats. To preserve what is known and trusted, or to radically change it. Both sides equally fanatical. Leaving little room for the other. We fuel the flames of opposition, stir up the storm even further and sigh under its intensity.  

There are eras in which this typically happens. When the world requires a different design of what is collectively deemed important. Well-being, freedom, peace, to name a few. And not to forget survival; also not insignificant. There are no people who would not want this.  

But old norms and structures show deep tears. And maybe they are supposed to break when they prove inadequate to serve our collective needs in the upcoming era.   

We shall then have to find new ways to shape collective values. 

Together, while holding each other close and not seize the best rafts for oneself. This starts by acknowledging that everyone’s interest is best served by putting our efforts into that which unites. On both a macro and micro scale. 

Not easy. But we know for certain that connecting on values will calm the storm. 

So it is in fact a golden opportunity, a storm like this. 

Let’s courageously continue to move forward in 2024. 

Warm greetings, Tineke, Gaitske and Annajorien