SLOVENIA'S 5 CORE VALUES

Conditions were challenging in many places, with icy and poorly cleared carriageways causing problems, especially for traffic.

But this is not a story of bad will. It is a story about how one unpleasant event can bring people together and remind us that it is mutual help that moves things forward.

A car accident occurred near the village of Zabrda during an afternoon drop-off of children and schoolchildren due to bad weather. The road was snow-covered and icy, and police officers were also responsible for directing traffic while the incident was being dealt with. As a result, Marko Humar had to stop the bus and reverse, allowing the plough vehicle to pass.

But then something happened that nobody wanted - despite having new winter tyres, the rear wheel of the bus slipped into a ditch and got stuck in the mud. There was no alternative but to install snow chains to save the bus.

Marko asked the children to stay calmly in their seats, and the secondary school pupils came to the rescue without hesitation and quite spontaneously. Between the storm, the snow and the cold, with numb hands and brand new, still packed chains, the minutes passed slowly. The students helped, watched and encouraged and - unbeknown to Marko - even called their parents.

Soon, Tomo and Aleš, two local men and fathers of two students, arrived on the scene. Experienced, used to working on the farm, in snowy conditions and installing chains for logging, hauling and ploughing. Together, they quickly realised that Marko would find it very difficult to install the chains on his own uphill. Their help was so invaluable.

While the police dealt with the accident, they kept one eye on their work and were finally satisfied to see that the complication had almost been resolved. Formula 1 style. The children were then transported until late afternoon, despite the very poor road conditions.

»All I can say is that I am proud; of the children, the students, their parents and everyone who stood together in those moments. Although sometimes loud, they are positive, warm-hearted and - what means the most today - willing to help,« said Marko. 

Such stories remind us that humanity is not a given, but it is always possible. And that is why it is worth sharing. It is a story of mutual help, where one unpleasant event brings people together and reminds them that we are still we humans have countless opportunities to help each other and make life better.

Amadeja Mlakar, 7. 1. 2026