103 years full of wisdom: Erika Ziefle reveals her life secret

103 years full of wisdom: Erika Ziefle reveals her life secret

Anklam, Deutschland - The life story of Erika Ziefle from Rathebur is not only remarkable because she recently celebrated her 103rd birthday. It is also a living witnesses of the changes that Germany has experienced since the early years of the Weimar Republic. Mayor Martin Weitmann congratulated the oldest resident of Ducherow with colorful flowers and wished her all the best for the coming years. Erika reveals her recipe for a happy age: a solid lifestyle, health, no alcohol and loyalty. Your insights could not only be important for older generations, but also for younger ones.

in 1922, in which Erika was born, Germany was still at the beginning of a dramatic conversion. The Weimar Republic had just been founded and people tried to deal with the aftermath of the First World War. The loss of around ten million lives due to the war left traces in society that expressed itself in hunger, chaos and political unrest. During this time of uncertainty, the first gummy bear, at that time still called "dance bears", also saw the light of the world - invented by Hans Riegel von Haribo, which helped the sweet treats for popularity. The democratization of the sweets was part of social change, which increased the affordability of luxury foods for the broad population and thus contributed a small but fine part to the new attitude to life.

the Weimar Republic and its heir

The Weimar Republic, which existed between 1919 and 1933, was a time of change and the spirit of optimism. With the introduction of general voting law and the legal equality of the citizens, the young democracy tried for a modern society. Nevertheless, the country was strongly divided, which was reflected in the rapid number of Chancellor of 13 in 14 years. The disappointments and stumbling blocks that accompanied the Weimar Republic were not to be overlooked, in particular the high unemployment and the oppressive reparation claims of the Versailles Treaty.

The first elections in this new democracy promoted great hopes, but reality was often different. The "golden twenties" were characterized by upswing, but also by dramatic economic setbacks. In this context, Erika Ziefles Life was in modest but stable tracks. She is proud to live in her own four walls, supported by her daughter Anita Rost and the social service of Johanniter.

sweets as part of cultural development

With the advent of gummy bears and other confectionery, a discussion about the role of consumer behavior in society began. Under the economic and social pressure, many people began to look around for small joys - and sweets like the gummy bears became affordable for many. Doris Richter, managing director of a gummy bear shop, describes this nostalgic value that the small fruit gums still have. The consumption of fruit gum has now blossomed to around 200,000 tons per year in Germany, an impressive sign of the popularity of these little delicacies.

For her 104th birthday party, Erika is planning a common ice meal with the mayor. This tradition of the community and gathering is another contribution to her secret recipe for a fulfilling life that has developed over more than a century. So the continued fun of small things, combined with a solid lifestyle, remains what it still keeps young.

The life of Erika Ziefle shows us that despite the numerous challenges that Germany has lived through over the decades - both in society and in private life - the focus should continue to focus on simplicity, health and connection. Her story is an encouraging message that teaches us to appreciate the little joys of life.