SLOVENIA'S 5 CORE VALUES

There is no doubt that the myths circulating about it, that it is supposed to be a concrete itself, are not true at all. My roots are not here, but far away, between fields and plains, between hills and valleys - in the north-east of Slovenia, more precisely in Goričko. It's where contact with the land calms you, and genuine relationships with the people there caress your soul. 

I go to Prekmurje several times a year, because all my family live there; my mother and three sisters and their families. Until recently, my father also lived there, but unfortunately he passed away in July this year, but he is still very present in our lives. 

The moment I cross the river Mura, the feeling changes. In a way, everything calms down, as if time were moving more slowly in this part of Slovenia. The view is wider, the sky is clearer and the air I breathe is fresher and cleaner. The ever lush nature invites me into its splendour to bestow me with its abundance of fragrances, fruits and colours. It also fills me with a sense of belonging, of always being part of it. And the people here are no different, living in harmony with these natural gifts. 

I am going to the village of Krašči, where my hosts live on an idyllic farm in a slightly hilly area, just two hundred metres away from Lake Ledava. Every time I arrive, I am greeted with a warm welcome, cooked food and pastries. Not to mention the room, which is always decorated with swans or hearts made out of towels, a bouquet of fresh flowers on the bedside table, dried fruit bunches or freshly baked homemade biscuits in a gift bag with a ribbon. Sister Sabina and my youngest niece are responsible for all this.

Finally, I was greeted at the door and three necklaces were waiting for me in the room, which the little artist had made herself. But my mother is always worried that I will not go hungry, and while I am at home, she always prepares dishes that she knows my son and I love. Then she and Sabina pack us a plate full of food to take home. The other two sisters who live nearby are just as generous. When we all get together in a pile, believe me, it's very lively, loud and cheerful!

Now tell me, who would not feel respected and wanted in such an environment and among such warm-hearted people? And it is not about all the luxury that awaits me every time I come home, it is about a deep sense of belonging, knowing and feeling that this is where my roots are, this is my birthplace, my first home. The kindness of my people makes me feel it all the more strongly.

I wish that everyone who - like me - does not live in their hometown could return to the warm embrace of their birthplace and the people who live there. Thank you to all the hosts for this magic of experiences and feelings!

Jožica Kous, 21 Oct 2025