Taking a stroll..with 50,000 people

Today was sunny and remarkably warm, so we went for a walk through Gendarmenmarkt, Berlin's famous French quarter with its concert house, two domes and many lanterns. And, finally and for the first time ever, I went inside the Berliner Dom in Hackescher Markt, whcich I've been meaning to do for years (along with the Reichstag, so I'm ticking a few things of my long To Do list). There just happened to be an orchestra warming up for a concert tonight, which added to the mood of the place - sun streaming in, stained-glass windows, huge ornate paintings and designs. Richard didn't like it so much - apparently religious places bring back the years of boredom and inner torment of a Catholic upbringing. Can't relate myself.
Our wander home was interrupted by police vans and 50,000 protestors. Well, that happens. The protests at the moment are about Hatz IV, Germany's attempt to curb rising unemployment (25% in some, mainly eastern parts) by cutting back benefits. Honestly, some people get up to 60% of their former salary in benefits. Although strong, I think Hartz IV is a must for Germany if it wants to get back on its feet. But many people obviously don't feel the same way, judging from the frequent protests. Mostly people from the former East, it must be said. Well, everyone in the GDR was supported and had some kind of job. And you can't just expect two former countries to reunite just like that without any problems. But then these days I don't think people should expect free handouts forever. Something has to change.
And as I type it's clouded over and is pouring with rain. Typical Berlin autumn...although the orange trees around the Berliner Dom did look very becoming.