Getting up early was the plan, because I had to be at the airport by eight. Family pickup duty. A promise is a promise. But it’s not as dramatic as it sounds. From my front door to the arrivals curb it’s barely a fifteen‑minute drive.
By 8:30 I’m already back home. The city opens up. Blue sky, crisp air, a hint of spring. I slip into my walking shoes and head out.
Not even ten minutes later I’m standing in the middle of the woods. Between the Nidda and Oeserstraße, where Frankfurt‑Nied shows one of its most attractive sides.
Half an hour ago I was surrounded by the roar of departing aircraft. Now, silence. Or rather: a different kind of sound.
I record a short video, not for the images. Have a listen if you like, here’s the link: https://lnkd.in/dM2e52dR. Bird calls, rustling leaves, and a gentle breeze can be heard.
These few minutes between airport and forest make it so clear to me: how close two worlds can be. And how quickly I can switch between them, if I allow myself to.
It’s no coincidence that we live so close to the airport. As a family, many of us are internationally on the move, and this place between runways and woodland paths fits our life lived between worlds.
Nature at its best. Spring is saying hello.
And now I’m curious: When was the last time you consciously noticed the sound of silence?
Wishing you a wonderful Sunday.
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I’m Bernd Scharbert, supporting leaders in applying intercultural guiding principles in their daily work. It’s about seeing cultural differences not as obstacles but as strengths and creating real connections in globally composed teams.
You’re welcome to explore my book Prepare for Landing: Leitlinien für interkulturelle Führung (Transl.: Guiding Principles for Intercultural Leadership), available in bookstores in Germany and online through Verlag Barbara Budrich , also as e-book.
