Yes, things look really bad.

I feel sick every morning when I wake to the memory of Europe being devastated. I'm scared of sleeping because I fear waking.

A few of my attempts to help people did more to drain me than achieve anything in those who prepare to appease what must not be tolerated. They refreshed my old motto, "Don't waste your energy on people you cannot help".

Many Americans are aware of how bad the situation is — this is one effect of a culture that values freedom of speech. However, it seems mostly men are furious, while women are less informed, or politically correct, or overwhelmed by their feelings for poor refugees, and their fear of evil xenophobic haters. But most Americans do think it is silly to make Germans suffer and destroy their country because they might all be potential nazis, or the great-great-grandchildren of nazis.

Take good care of yourself. Keep a strong pocketlight and pepperspray ready; this is the kind of equipment you need when you least expect it. Learning self-defense, even at your age, is a good idea. You'll be among people with the same worries, it's good for your self-confidence, and you might learn good skills like using a rolled-up newspaper as a weapon.

Do not lock yourself up. Look people in the eye. People will be much more willing to help once they've perceived you clearly as a human being, not just a moving obstacle on the sidewalk. Do talk to as many people as possible, while shopping, in the bus, anywhere. Small talk isn't a German strength, but it's extremely helpful. It took me ages to learn this. Say thank you to cops whenever you can. Yes, I do say "Thank you, officer" whenever I bicycle past a traffic policeman. Demonstrate confidence, imagine me standing right behind you and cheering you on. I really wish I could stand behind each German and back them up. Do I sound crazy? Just try it.

Don't get paranoid if a social network is down. Yeah, they probably can't keep up with their censorship regulations, so what. Enjoy a break, have a tea, move away from they keyboard, and read Grimm's Fairy Tales, where the good ones win most of the time. Call old friends, repair something, lift weight to use your rage well, or write me an email to tell me what burdens your soul. I'm more than willing to translate and twitter for you. Or to help boost you on Skype. Don't hesitate, maybe there is something I can do for you.

Greetings from my tiny island.