As I was driving home from work to Postojna, my car started making very strange noises. I managed to drive to the car park and switched it off, but then I couldn't turn it on again. I was really desperate, because I knew I had no transport for the next day.
I called a few relatives and friends, but they were all at work or busy with other commitments at the time. Finally, I called Marusha. Even though I knew she was always busy, I tried anyway. I asked her for a favour and she laughed and said, "Of course I'll give you a lift! We're finally going on that trip we've been trying to arrange for so long without success! When do I pick you up?"
She selflessly postponed all the commitments she had planned for that time and picked me up at my home at the very early hour of six the next morning, and we set off together for Ljubljana.
Not wanting to keep her any longer than necessary, I told her I would take the train or bus back. But she wouldn't hear of it: 'As you come, so you go, period. I'll wait for you, don't worry about me. Take all the time you need."
Her words meant a lot to me. I knew that I was facing a very difficult procedure, and that gave me a feeling of security and support.
Three hours later, when I finally came out of the hospital, I picked up the phone to call Marusha and tell her I was finished. But she beat me to it - she was already waving at me from her car parked in the nearest car park, smiling up to my ears. She was waiting for me with a cup of coffee to go and a fresh French croissant. "I thought you could use something to eat, but now let's go so you can rest at home," she said.
Not only that, I didn't expect someone to take the time to drive me to Ljubljana and wait for me there. Maruša did something that day that I will always remember. She took the day off, booked it just for me and even took care of everything that I didn't even think I would need.
It may be a small thing for some, but for me it was a demonstration of true friendship, care for fellow human beings and genuine empathy.
When we arrived in Postojna, she walked me to my apartment and made sure I was feeling well. "You know, if you ever need a favour again, let me know. I'd be happy to help. I know what it's like to have something unexpected, bad happen to you just when you need it least. You'll have taken your car in for repairs, and we've had a nice trip," she said goodbye.
Nuša Želko, 12 May 2025
English (UK) 
Slovenščina 
Italiano 
Magyar