I decided to visit him at his property, which my friend spoke about with admiration. When I arrived, he greeted me with a smile that radiated warmth and authenticity. His property is an oasis of peace, where gardens, orchards and trees intertwine. Each corner tells its own story of toil, love and dedication. His work is tolerant; he perseveres and works slowly. I was most struck by the friendly bees. There were hives everywhere the bees wanted to be, but none of them was hungry or trying to sting me. Why?
Rajko said, "Because I don't steal their honey. If they have too much, I take it, but if the harvest is poor and they have only for themselves, I leave them food for the young." That seems really fair, sustainable and environmentally friendly to me.
Rajko is a man who believes in the power of community. Although he does most of the work on the property himself, he has always welcomed helpers who want to contribute or learn. His generosity knows no bounds; he selflessly shares the knowledge he has acquired over the years with anyone who shows an interest. His patience and his ability to inspire people are remarkable. He has also always volunteered to help young parents to educate and teach their children who have been educated at home or in the community.
One of the things that also struck me about him was his care for a part of the property that was not his. When he found out that there was no owner, or that he had never found one, he started to look after this piece of land next to his property as if it were his own. He planted fruit trees, landscaped the gardens and kept the land in the best possible condition. He always said: "If the owner returns, I will give him back the property, enriched with trees and crops and well maintained, and I will ask nothing in return, because I am grateful that I now have the benefit of this land." This is a reflection of his profound honesty and respect for other people's property.
Rajko was so open and honest that he always did the right thing and made a conscientious decision, which was supported by his results. So everything that was difficult in his life became a blessing for him. Just as he was open and honest with others and gave them what they asked for immediately, even if unjustly, someone else gave him even more back. I know of no one else so honest and so energetically flowing. In fact, he behaves as if we are all one. Until I met him, I did not know these qualities. He is a role model for me, which is why I started to behave like this myself and I have really started to reap the fruits of life more abundantly.
His moderation and modesty were evident in his every action. Although he achieved much, he never sought recognition or praise. His contentment came from inner peace and from knowing that he was living in accordance with his values.
Meeting Rajko Bošnjak taught me the importance of living authentically, sharing knowledge and building bridges between people and the natural environment. His example has inspired me to value nature, community and the values that bind us together more today. His story is a reminder that each of us, whatever our circumstances, can contribute to a better and more connected world. Rajko taught me how to accept the world as it is and not to be afraid of it.
Silva Požleb, 15. 3. 2025