As the days get shorter and the festive lights come on in villages and towns, time seems to slow down for a moment. Then our thoughts unconsciously drift to those we love.
An event from years ago comes to mind. The snow was falling lightly that day; just enough to whitewash the roofs. There was a special atmosphere. Slovenian Christmas music played softly from a loudspeaker outside the school gates, and the children waited impatiently for us to switch on the festive lights. When the lights came on, there were spontaneous shouts of joy. These are the moments that count, the moments we remember.
In December, there is a sense of belonging everywhere; in small villages where villagers gather to light the lights, and in cities where the streets are filled with crowds of people. December is a time of special traditions. First comes St Nicholas, the benefactor who brings with him not a luxury but a message. His gifts are modest but meaningful. The focus is not on what we get, but on a reminder that kindness is a value to be cherished throughout the year. In many Slovenian towns and cities, St Nicholas' arrival is accompanied by parklands, bells and fire, and despite its apparent loudness, it carries with it a peace and tradition that binds generations together.
Christmas comes after it. A celebration of home, family and peace. It's when houses fill with the smell of cake, cookies and spruce. People gather around the table, light the candles and take a moment away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Christmas carols, especially those in our own language, have a special power - they reflect the stories of our ancestors, their faith, hope and resilience. It is in these moments that we become aware of that deeper connection.
In December, we hear Slovenian carols even more often. When children in kindergartens and schools recite and sing songs, it is not only the lyrics that are passed down from generation to generation, but also the sense of belonging to a community.
We are proud to live in our beautiful Slovenia. A country that is small but diverse. We know how to appreciate our traditions, but we also remain open to learning from people with different cultural backgrounds who have found a home among us, from people who bring with them new habits, tastes and world views.
Every year, December shows us once again that belonging is not a given, but something we build - by preserving our heritage, by loving our language and by respecting each other. And as we step into the New Year, we carry that belonging with us. As a quiet but powerful awareness that we are part of something bigger.
No matter where the road takes us, this is a time when we are even more aware of the importance of family, friends and the people we share our days with. It is they who give meaning to the holidays.
The festive season reminds us again and again that the most important thing is to feel like we belong somewhere and to know that we have people around us who love us just the way we are.
Maja Grošelj, 21. 12. 2025
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