From ska band singer to guiding people during their life changing moments meet Glynis German. Glynis now lives in Mallorca where she founded the Giving Life to Death Festival in 2020. Read her story.
Why Spain?
I was studying drama at Middlesex Uni in London back in the 80s and I was also singing with a ska band! We came to Barcelona for a gig and I immediately fell in love, went back to uni and added Spanish to my degree course.
I never did it because I was going to live it, I did it because I loved the country, the language, the people and I was hooked. Fast forward to a summer in Italy working on a super yacht (well, it was 1992, nowadays it would be a dingy) for the season. When it ended, whilst all my new friends made their way across the Atlantic for the winter season in the Caribbean, I came to Mallorca and never left!
Two beautiful sons and a wonderful ex nearby, my mother and sister moved here in 2017 and life is good.
And where are you now?
I never left and two beautiful sons – now adults – later, I am still in Mallorca! I live in the middle of the island but unless you’re willing to integrate fully here, learn not only Spanish but give Mallorquin a try too, please don’t move here! Binissalem is perfect for young families with lots to do and the train to Palma allowing older kids to get their independence.
Fiestas rule so be ready to party if that’s your thing! Local culture in terms of book club, theatre and various groups is part of life which is why the local language does help!
What was the biggest challenge for your move?
No real challenges in the past 31 years but usual challenges of life apply! Having faith that it can always get better helps and surrounding myself with positive, wise people too!
Do you have any advice for Women thinking about making the move?
Why? Dreaming is fine but being part of a community is going to define your success in life! Don’t come here to escape from somewhere else as you’ll bring your attitudes and mindset with you.
You help people with their important moments – tell us more
I am busy most days either getting ready for weddings in the season or meeting couples for the next season. Regular funerals are attended to and for those I normally have just 3 to 5 days to prepare.
I do a lot of death work and volunteering too and every week visit the terminally ill in palliative wards. I facilitate regular death cafes either online for Spanish health and funeral professionals or in person in different villages around the island.
I organise an annual death festival too, Dando Vida a la Muerte (Giving Life to Death Festival) which is taking place from 1st to 5th November.
This year I have organised 3 events in English:
1st November 11h at Bon Sosec Crematorium Marratxi – “Remembrance Ceremony”
2nd November 11-13h Son Batlet, Sencelles – “Open day to this pet crematorium with ceremony to remember our animal friends”
3rd November 11h -13h at Inca Crematorium “Open Day with tour of the faciliities, refreshments and presence of DIME; Age Concern and Cancer Support Group Mallorca”
I try to catch up with friends or take in first born son’s gigs (very talented musician).
If you could achieve one spectacular thing in just one day what would it be?
Die fulfilled and at peace!
Something you are grateful for?
My peace of mind, my health, my sons, my family.
Who would be at your special dinner party?
My late parents as they were and remain very wise and entertaining with so much to share from which other guests would learn! Nelson Mandela to ask about courage; Maya Angelou to read poetry to us; Rumi to read more poetry; my sons to play music!
What’s your secret weapon or accomplishment?
My optimism to always see the bigger picture!
Do you have a favourite quote?
This too shall pass! It can only get better!
One thing you had to bring to Spain and could never give away?
Came with a suitcase of summer clothes at the end of October! I am always happy to give away things – after all, you cannot take anything with you when you die!
Do you have a favourite book?
“One flew over the cuckoo’s nest” – book and film were true to each other and it shows all the facets of human character – love, idiocy, cruelty, bravery, courage, humour and more!
Something you would tell your younger self?
Keep the weight off!
Thank you Glynis German where can we find out more?
My websites www.glynisgermancelebrant.com and www.glynisgermanfunerals.com
Social Media @glynisgermancelebrant @glynisgermanfunerals
If you would like to share your story, please complete the online questions here
And read more Costa Women stories in our regular interview feature!
