Sometimes life sends special souls into our daily lives who enrich our world with their presence. They touch us quietly, like a gentle breeze, without demanding anything, and they themselves give much. It is beautiful to write a story about the quiet richness of moderation that leaves a trace. Mrs Marta Debevc from Mala Bukovica near Ilirska Bistrica is proof of this. She gives with her hands and gives with her heart.
She came into my world by accident. I was introduced to her by my friend Lili, a fellow student of Martina's. She brought a lady of respectable years to visit me to make a card for her for a special occasion. Although I only make cards for my own use, I was happy to respond to her request. Although I had never seen this lady before, I wanted to please her - not out of duty, but because of the inner satisfaction I feel when I give something to someone. She wanted to pay me for the favour, but it was free.
Martin's first visit felt familiar, simple and colourfully engaged in conversation, which already that day added new shades of colour. I felt her wisdom as we shared a coffee and a nice chat. I could read in her words many life experiences that have made her a strong, grateful and warm-hearted person. Marta not only brought her smile, but she also gave me a gift made by her own hands. She gave me a pair of crocheted grippers, functional and woven with threads of love and care. My visitor gifted me many times afterwards with countless beautiful trinkets, which I have happily incorporated into my amateur work.
I quickly realised that Marta was something special. Her presence leaves a mark. Every time she comes to visit, she brings with her a gift; not a bought gift, but a created gift, a unique gift, her handiwork of priceless value. I know that handicraft is not just a skill, but an expression of the heart. Mrs Marta knows that I appreciate her gifts immensely. For Easter, she surprised me with crocheted Easter eggs. They were so sophisticated and imaginative that they delighted everyone who walked through the door of my house.
Her hands tell stories woven from the threads of patience, the reflection of her soul, her love and her sense of beauty. Her gifts are priceless and carry the message: "What I make, I give." In these words is hidden all her greatness, in these words is hidden the philosophy of moderation; no exaggeration, no demands, only sincere giving. Her kindness is silent but strong. Her generosity shines through.
It is not always easy to accept such gifts. A sense of duty can cloud gratitude. But I learned from Martha that it is important to receive with love, to respect the other person's efforts and to allow the gift to achieve its purpose.
Moderation teaches us the balance between giving and receiving. It teaches us that when someone gives something, the gift takes on greater weight and meaning. Moderation does not mean lessbut enough. It means knowing when to give and when to receive, when to choose silence over show, when to give a little instead of a fortune. Moderation is not modesty. It also teaches us that true wealth is not in quantity but in sincerity of heart. Moderation is not modesty, but a balance between the heart that gives and the hand that receives.
I am grateful to know Mrs Martha, who knows how to warm other people's hearts. Her presence is a gift. The most beautiful things in life are those that are made with love and given with the heart. Simple acts create miracles and magic. They are the silent gestures that build bridges between people.
Bernarda Jenko, 4. 8. 2025
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