This fine German based word was first seen in print in the 1796 novel, Sienenkas, by Jean Paul. In English the word would not be capitalized and the “umlat” those two little dots above the a would not be present. Only recently has the word be applied to a paranormal concept. In 1787, the term “fetch”, appeared as “the apparition of a person living.” The concept of alter egos and double spirits has appeared in folklore, myths, religious concepts, and the traditions of many cultures throughout our recorded history. Recently we have examples where people have found their “twin stranger” in an online facial recognition application. As a long time golfer, I have often said when my game is not up to my expectation that it is the work of my evil twin, but I digress. I came across this word as a possible explanation of an extraordinary photo from 120 years ago that shows a young girl panning for gold in Canada, she bears a close resemblance to Greta Thunberg. Sixteen year old Greta appeared on the cover of the May 2019 Time and is the Time Person of the Year for her leadership in “school strike for climate” efforts to save our planet.
Greta became aware of the threats to our world from climate change at 8 years of age and implored her parents to do something to make a difference. Greta’s charts and graphs convinced the family they had to take steps to lower their carbon footprint-they became vegan, practiced up-cycling, and gave up flying. Greta’s plea was that her parents not taking action was stealing her future. Her families support proved she could make a difference. Greta says she has a super power, she has been diagnosed with Asperger syndrome, obsessive compulsive disorder and selective mutism. From her personal strike in front the Swedish parliament to her recent speeches at The UN Climate Action Summit, Greta has become the “climate catalyst”. Over 4 million people from all seven continents joined the Global Climate Strike on September 20. In October, along with Native American teenage climate activist Takota Iron Eyes, Greta participated in a climate panel on the Standing Rock Indian Reservation. Greta was honored with a Lakota name, Mahpiya Etahan hi wi- translated the name means ”Woman who came from heaven.”
Many world leaders have criticized her and some critics have even threatened her- she is unfazed. I encourage you to read the Time article on Greta and the power of a sixteen year old, it is truly inspirational. The sense of urgency she conveys has my full attention. I think she has millions of like minded young people, who are doppelgängers for her spirit and message.
Each of us can make a difference for our planet. Please consider the future of our grandchildren. Happy holidays. Mike