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What holds you back? What keeps you going?

June 5, 2015

Former US-marine Kurt traded his safe home in California for war in Iraq. In our Q&A he tells us about his dreams.

https://p.dw.com/p/1Fbzc
Titel: Nur für Life Links - Handfoto Kurt
We've asked Kurt what holds him back. The answer is written on his palm.Image: DW/J. Bruck

Name: Kurt
Age: 25
Hometown: moved from California to the Kurdish region

What is most important to you in your life?
The most important thing in my life is the growth and development of myself as a warrior and human being in the service of humanity.

Realistically, what do you expect from your future?
For the future, I hope to make a positive impact in Kurdistan and possibly continue my efforts in the development of the country after "Islamic State's" defeat.

How do you spend your free time?
I spend my free time training, playing video games and socializing with like-minded friends.

If you want to reward yourself by doing something special, what do you do?
To reward myself, I plan on taking trips to different parts of the world to experience other cultures and spiritually uplifting locations.

What impresses you most about the Kurdish people?
They are innovative because even though their lives are surrounded by chaos and war they always find ways to continue their daily lives and ambitions.


In the Kurdish region, how much is...
1 liter of bottled water: $0.20
1 cup of coffee in a café: $1
1 pair of jeans: $20
1 book (paperback): $3


#readytofight: 'It is my obligation to fight Islamic State'