“The Drama of Human Existence”
6th – 17th August 2007, Targu Mures, Romania
WYA Europe's second Viviamo Summer School: A unique programme which combined formal and non-formal learning with social and cultural events, giving a unique and fresh experience of the depth of human dignity. The 12 day event facilitated intercutural dialogue and mutual understanding of global problems, expanding mental horizons and raising awareness of international issues and personal responsibility. Viviamo 2007 was a chance to stop, to look into the mirror of experience offered to us by another person, to reflect together on life & literature and to enter into the dynamism of choices, freedom and self-discovery. Participants embarked upon a life-long journey of discovery: unravelling the beauty and complexity of the human spirit and entering together into the depths of the The Drama of Human Existence.
Project Description
Participation in 2007 Viviamo! Summer School was a unique experience which allowed members of the WYA from around the world to reflect in a new way on the drama of everyday existence. The innovative approach of the Summer School combined the benefits of formal and non-formal education, intercultural dialogue and encounters with literary works. Participants gathered from Azerbijan, Canada, USA, Romania, Poland, Moldova, England, Scotland and Belgium, to reflect upon human dignity through the prism of encounters with others and attention to literary works. This was an opportunity for WYA members to live and study together for two weeks and also to collaborate on exciting projects which included a unique and ambitious theatre production!
The learning process was enhanced through an exploration of imagination, literature and performing arts, animated by Sarah de Nordwall, Director of The Bard School in London. Participants were inspired by their encounter with poetry, particularly in the context of special working groups on the philosophical relevance of literature led by an outstanding scholar, Professor Czeslaw Porebski. Additional innovative and thought-provoking sessions on the artistic process and use of imagination were led by Sarah de Nordwall. A professional Shakespearean actor, Mike Murray, successfully directed an international cast of Viviamo participants in the production of a moving public theatre performance of Karol Wojtyła’s play, The Jeweller’s Shop. This theatre performance was a highlight of the two weeks. Through interactive and creative learning sessions, participants developed their ability to reflect upon human experience in a unique and poignant way.
The Drama of Human Existence was also made visible in the rich discussions on the nature of human freedom and human rights. The practical relevance of these ideas was highlighted throughout the policy workshops which addressed developments in human rights, population & development policies and HIV/AIDS. Participants simulated a European Parliament debate on bioethics which highlighted the importance of attentive listening. WYA Europe members will revisit the chosen themes of Viviamo! over the coming months, drawing upon them in reflection on policy issues –such as recent judgments of the European Court of Human Rights and developments in European debates on bioethics, euthanasia and family policy.
In addition to formal learning sessions, policy workshops and the successful production of a play, participants also visited some beautiful sites in Trannsylvania over the course of the two weeks. Finally they also worked in solidarity to clean up a local park in Targu Mures. This contribution to the local community was much appreciated by the local authorities and attracted more media attention. Participants built solidarity through social work and team activities and gained valuable insights through personal interaction and discussion with other Viviamo participants. We are grateful to the local host families and members of the local community for their hospitality!
Reflections from the Organisers
"The themes we chose for the programme worked so well to provide springboards of reflection on human experience. "
"Summer 2007 turned out to be an intense time of personal reflection and growth for the staff and interns of WYA Europe. I think we have all been enriched by this Summer's reflection on 'The Drama of Human Existence' and the philosophical relevance of poetry and literature"
"I was filled with joy as I experienced the interaction of the chosen themes and the way they resonated in the activities and lived experience of the participants of the Summer School – we were touched by the way in which our encounter with works of literature and with each other started to shed light on a mystery that is worth reflecting for a long time..."
"I think that we will keep revisiting the chosen themes over the coming months, drawing upon them in our continued reflection on policy issues - recent judgments of the European Court of Human Rights, developments in European debates on bioethics, euthanasia and family policy."
"The participants experienced Viviamo in the way we intended: the idea of looking more attentively at reality was one that has featured prominently in much of our activity this summer. This theme was reflected in our most recent conference, Eyes Wide Open, which examined perceptions of body and behaviour in global health policy related to HIV/AIDS, human trafficking and human cell, tissue and organ trade. It is so important to perceive reality as it is - to be attentive to the real needs of the other - in order to shape policy which affirms the human person and truly fosters integral development."
Memories of Participants
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