Childhood and family
What are the crucial factors that have shaped my personal journey?
FAMILY: Family is the most important school of life. As the second oldest of three sons, I practiced assertiveness and teamwork from my earliest days. In 2002, I married my wife. My family is my ultimate retreat.
HOMELAND: While I enjoy working at the European level and thinking in a European manner, I am deeply rooted to my homeland. In July 1972, I was born in the district of Landshut. After kindergarten in Pfeffenhausen, I was enrolled in school in Wildenberg in the district of Kelheim. My educational path led me from the elementary school in Wildenberg via the middle school in Siegenburg and the secondary school in Rottenburg to the specialised secondary school in Landshut. During my voluntary work at the KLJB (Catholic Rural Youth Movement) - as a trumpet player in the church brass instrument group - and my contribution to village life, I gained vital life experience. For me, my home is my identity.
MUSIC: From my second year of secondary school, I have played guitar. Together with my friends I formed a band, in which I was involved in for almost twenty years. Our gigs at dancing events, festivals and carnival balls meant so much to me, and provided a wonderful life experience.
FAITH: Weekly church attendance is no duty for me; rather it is an enriching and spiritual experience. Christianity enriches my life, inducing a sense of continuity and stability in an increasingly fast-paced world. In the past, I regularly spent time in monasteries to foster spirituality and gain renewed momentum.
