There are three types of youth: Those who do not question sleeping in the hall at all and those who book a hotel room. And then there's me: the sceptic who ended up here nevertheless. Why actually?

WAs I'm writing this, I feel as if I'm working on a pros and cons list, without knowing which side will win at the end. There is a great concern at the moment that the figures for hall registrations at upcoming youth days could fall, because of this contribution. Okay then, dear dormitory, I am open to be convinced by you. So show me what you can do!

Comfort

I lie down on my mats for the first time - yes, mats. To be on the safe side I took two mats with me. And yet my first thought is: "I could just as well be lying on the floor." Since I am not a fan of public showers, I will try to only shower once during the entire youth day - that will happen tomorrow. That is why I would like to quote my girlfriend Lena about this topic: "The showers should rather be called wet cells. The installation of a simple board for the storage of dry stuff would upgrade the whole shower by 100 per cent.

More than just accommodation

Sounds pretty harsh, but then I remember this morning when Lena told me how she had met great sisters while looking for a hairdryer, because in the sleeping hall you have to stick together and that´s how you easily make contact to lovely people. One shares deodorant sprays, make-up mirrors and experiences. That's how you give each other advice, on how to change your clothes best without leaving your sleeping bag, or how to freshen up and get styled even without a sink. That´s really necessary sometimes, because the queue at the ladies' room is particularly long in the morning and evening. But even there you can get into a conversation and experience how nice everyone is to each other.

In times of Bluetooth speakers and thanks to nice helpers at the power bank stations there are always spontaneous music sessions (have I already mentioned how good this power bank idea was?). And when suddenly everyone dances and stamps together to "We will rock you", the sleeping dorm turns into a party location. Again and again there is clapping and cheering, because somewhere something great has happened. And even if you don't know why, it's just fun.

Caring for each other

During the workshops, divine services and meals there is not really much time for intensive conversations. But when chilling in the hall, when you're strung out and lying on the mat, suddenly you´re bubbling over with emotions. We share our worries, give each other advice and agree: "The IYC is the ideal time to let go and leave behind what is troubling us." Time and again I see young people lying in each other's arms and I can feel how we strengthen each other.

All that remains

So sleeping in the hall is just like real life: It is not comfortable and there´s always something to complain about. But it is also really worthwhile to experience and full of moments of happiness.

That's why I now finally understand the snoring youth: they can't help the volume of their nightly snoring concert and yet they just want to have a nice time. Moreover, if one listens carefully, the composition of their snore beats is not at all unmusical. And if that doesn't suit your musical taste, thanks to headphones, you could also choose another soundtrack to fall asleep.

My conclusion is very clear: the back pain will disappear again by next week. I will still enthusiastically tell others all about the great people, the amazing conversations and the unique class trip atmosphere when I am old and grey.