SLOVENIA'S 5 CORE VALUES

Not everyone knows a boy named Tine Ličan, who lives in this Slovenian town.

His story is small, as he was small then. He was seven years old. He often visited my mother Vera, his great-grandmother, who lived the last years of her life in a senior citizens' home, with me.

His great-grandmother was immobile and demented. Although she was helpless and lived in her own world, they got on well. He brought toys to her that were interesting for both of them. Every time he brought a smile, fun, childlike warmth and light into the room.

One of the funniest stories happened when Tine entered her room with a helmet on his head covering his entire face, making him unrecognisable. I don't know what our dear Verica imagined at the time, but his childish antics made her laugh out loud. They both laughed so infectiously that even a passing caregiver wondered what kind of theatre was going on in Mrs Verica's room. 

Tine asked me when Nona Vera - that's what he called her - would leave the bed so he could lie in it. Where did he get the idea that he would also reign on this bed, when they had snoozed on it together many times, which was very nice to see?!
The opportunity came when his great-grandmother was in a wheelchair, leaving the bed free. Tine made himself comfortable on it and watched cartoons on TV. Ah, so that was his wish!

For his age, Tine was extremely compassionate. He and his great-grandmother had an immeasurable and special bond. They both behaved like children, yet it was Tine who kept a close eye on the then 93-year-old, massaged her hands, put nourishing cream on her hands, combed her hair, spoon-fed her fruit porridge and then wiped her mouth. He visibly enjoyed helping her.

He showed her respect, he gave her time, he adapted to her new situation, which was different from the one she was in a few years ago. His childish actions stood out as a role model for those around him.

The story of the compassionate Tinet has become an example for our whole family, proving that even the youngest ones can benefit the elderly by their presence and actions. Tine has shown that respect, helping others, compassion and belonging to a family are not just words, but values that can be lived every day.

A kind word and compassion are riches that show the greatness of the heart.

                                                                                                          Bernarda Jenko, 17. 2. 2025