JAN KAPAAN

I’ve written it down for myself: “Freedom in your attachments requires enduring respect and tolerance for each other, despite all the diversity.” It’s not set in stone, but that’s how I feel. I added ‘respect’ deliberately.

That respect is often intrinsically there in young people,

but they’re still looking for ways to show it. They are more mouthy and assertive. With older people, you sometimes see a lack of respect – for example when people start speaking to each other familiarly straight away, without even trying to feel out what each side wants.

Personally, I feel free because of all the options I have.

In my private life, I feel free, and I can be part of cultural activities and the church. That means freedom to me as well. It’s something I can rely on: I’m never alone. In general, the Netherlands is a tolerant country, but disrespect is coming to the fore in politics – and the government is supposed to be a role model!