At the age of 14 he accompanies his father for the first time to the rural political assembly. This marks the beginning of his public career. The tall young man Niklaus is wellliked and respected amongst his fellowcitizens. His heart is in the right place. Whatever he says is well thought out and to the point, and his way with people inspires confidence.
But the young man feels drawn towards peace and tranquillity. The 16-year-old sees a wonderful high tower in the Ranft valley. This picture is a symbol of his central lifeline: he wants to be anchored in the earth like a tower but be able to reach high up into heaven at the same time. He wants the world to be at one with God and aims himself to reach a «mystical union with God». This yearning impels him on during his whole life.
As all young men of 16 Niklaus must do military duty, but there is no existing record to show us which regiment he belonged to. His friends report that he looks for peace here too, does little harm to the enemy and even protects them whenever possible. He resolutely follows his own straight path, even when his colleagues plunder and lay fires.