SLOVENIA'S 5 CORE VALUES

In our small town, most of us know each other and we still manage to maintain that cosy, familiar feeling that I unfortunately didn't feel in the bigger cities where I lived when I was studying. That is why I am always grateful when I hear a story like this that warms your heart. 

Our blocks are home to residents who are, understandably, of different age groups. We can hear the cries of newborn babies as well as the slow steps of a grandmother struggling to walk up the stairs to her top-floor flat. 

We are different age groups and have different needs. But it's always nice to see a person come along who positively surprises you with an unexpected act that brightens your day. Sometimes just a smiley greeting is all we need. 

Today, I would like to mention Mary, a warm-hearted, wise and loving person who always makes sure that the people around her are provided for, whether they are her grown-up children, her husband who is somewhat dependent on her because of health problems, or a stranger in need of help. She doesn't think, she just reacts intuitively. 

We have an elderly neighbour in the block who has recently had some surgery, which makes it difficult for her to do everyday tasks. She has no one nearby who can come and see her several times and help her.

Despite having plenty of other things to do at home, Marija spent several days in a row preparing an extra portion of lunch for this elderly neighbour. Compassionate as she is, Marija is quick to put herself in someone else's shoes and knows when someone needs help. "What would it be like to need help like that yourself, and how grateful would you be if someone helped you?" are sometimes her words.  

It is also worth noting that she did all this despite the fact that she herself has a weak knee and has difficulty walking up the stairs, of which there are not a few, to get to her neighbour.

My neighbour, of course, warmly and gratefully accepted her gift and they are in frequent contact. 

Whatever the challenges life throws at us, there is always room to help others. A good heart knows no boundaries. 

Mojca Jeram, 15. 2. 2025