Returning home to MV: Between envy and longing - experiences of a returnee

Returning home to MV: Between envy and longing - experiences of a returnee

"I really regret the move. Since we've been here, all I've felt is mistrust and envy." This is how an author describes his experiences after a year in Neubrandenburg in the local column “I’m here again”. Despite initial adversities, he now feels well settled, but notices how difficult it is to integrate into the existing networks of the locals. People in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania often keep to themselves, and the existing connections are primarily regional. A native of Baden-Württemberg even expresses his discomfort with the term “Wessi”, which impressively underlines the discussion about home and foreignness. While returnees from northeast Germany often have the desire to move away again, West Germans seem to feel quite comfortable, especially in cities like Neustrelitz.

The column also leads to critical feedback. A reader criticizes the “whining” of the locals as stressful and thus fuels discussion about the mentality of the region. The author reflects on his own return to his roots and reflects on how the attitude to life differs in different cities in Germany. During his time studying in North Rhine-Westphalia, he experienced support and trust, something he seemed to be missing in his new home in MV.

Feelings of home are changing

What defines home? The Duden describes a sense of home as a close connection to one's homeland, which can, however, change over time due to moving. Many who have moved out retain their connection to their original place of residence, such as the journalist Liz Wollner, who moved to Lucerne in 2010 and now had to return to her home town of Vienna for family reasons. Although this was not her dream, she argues that many returnees are often relieved to reactivate old social networks. However, development and adaptation take time – even in the new home.

“When are you going home again?” is one of the questions she often hears, but it is often linked to a deep longing for the original center of her life. For Liz, who traveled regularly to Vienna during her time in Switzerland, the process of finding her way back was a little easier. Nevertheless, the feeling of strangeness in such a familiar city is not absent, which the author also makes clear in the column.

Young generation between misunderstandings and new friendships

The film adaptation of the best-selling young adult novella “All the Bright Places,” in which Violet and Finch cope with their new lives and the challenges of grief, also shows how young people deal with these issues in a changing world. Both characters, who emotionally cling to their places of life and the carefreeness they have lost, find new hope in their encounter. Their development not only encourages them to see the beauty in small things, but also to find connection again after a period of exclusion and discontent. Directed by Brett Haley, it impressively shows how important it is to support and accept each other.

The reflection on home, foreignness and integration runs through many life stories, including in Neubrandenburg. The author's call to share one's own experiences opens up space for dialogue and understanding. Even if the feeling of mistrust often prevails, there is always room for new friendships and insights that help you find your place in a new environment.