In the light of the forthcoming Christmas and New Year, the Slovenian Prime Minister, Mr Janez Janša, today received the charity workers of the year from the Slovenian Red Cross and Slovenska Karitas.

 

PHOTO: Primož Lavre/Salomon 2000

The Prime Minister warmly welcomed them and said that in the light of the forthcoming festive season, a holiday associated with peace, mutual respect and trust, it was right to pause and take stock of one’s work, in particular the work that brings hope and happiness into other people’s lives. According to the Prime Minister, it is important to do good to others since this is what brings people closer together and gives life deeper meaning.

 

The Prime Minister said that, regrettably, laws and the state sometimes did not reach those living on the breadline. He went on to say, “Formal approaches deal with figures, cases and statistics; they do not put names and surnames to those who in their plight and hardships struggle daily to make ends meet. Compassion, closeness and feeling for your fellow human being are very precious values. Through your willingness to help and through the goodness of your heart you have shown that you care and that you want to make a difference. You have proven to us all that even something small can, indeed, have an impact on other people’s lives. It is said that whatever one does with love and faith, with patience, persistence, accuracy and generosity is never lost. It is my belief that your work is clear proof of this.”

 

“We shall never be the largest. We shall never be the strongest. But we can be the best,” said the Prime Minister and added that being the best meant being willing to help and do something for the common good.

 

In the light of the upcoming holidays, Mr Janša wished all those present a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.