Published: September 2000
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-65.pdf
About This Issue
Iskra No. 65 continues editor Valentina Krčmar’s unwavering commitment to truth and moral reflection. This issue examines the emotional and political fallout from the extradition of Croatian generals to The Hague, the community’s struggle to reconcile justice with national pride, and the growing sense of frustration among Croatians at home and abroad. Alongside these sobering themes, the issue also uplifts readers with stories of faith, charity, and resilience from the Croatian diaspora in Canada.
Editorial: “When Justice Forgets Its Heart”
Valentina opens with an impassioned editorial on the widening divide between the ideals of justice and the realities of international politics. She reflects on Croatia’s painful experience with The Hague Tribunal, where soldiers who defended their homeland are being tried as war criminals while perpetrators of aggression remain unpunished.
“Justice that forgets compassion becomes merely another form of cruelty.”
Her tone is mournful yet resolute — she acknowledges Croatia’s duty to uphold the law but insists that truth must be told in full, not selectively. She calls upon Croatians everywhere to stand united, to defend the dignity of those who fought for freedom, and to resist the rewriting of history through silence.
Motrišta: “The Hague — or the Cross?”
In her Motrišta column, Valentina compares the moral burden of Croatia’s cooperation with The Hague to carrying a cross. She portrays the trials of generals as symbolic of a deeper national trial — one testing the country’s faith, conscience, and courage.
“Our soldiers went to The Hague with heads held high, while the world that judged them looked away from its own guilt.”
She questions whether Croatia’s leaders are doing enough to defend their people, expressing concern that political pragmatism has replaced moral conviction.
“We were taught that the truth will set us free — yet today it feels as if speaking it is forbidden.”
National Focus: Politics in Transition
The issue includes detailed coverage of ongoing reforms within Croatia’s new government, focusing on changes to foreign policy, military structure, and cooperation with international institutions. Analysts express mixed feelings about these rapid shifts, with many fearing that national unity is being traded for Western approval.
At the same time, Iskra highlights the importance of maintaining transparency, human rights, and accountability as Croatia continues to navigate its postwar identity.
“Democracy is not measured by obedience to others, but by fidelity to one’s own truth.”
Community Life in Canada
Amid the heaviness of world events, Iskra brings warmth through stories of Croatian community life across Ontario:
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Toronto’s Croatian Church of Our Lady Queen of Croatia hosted a charity event raising funds for children affected by war.
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The Croatian Soccer Club “Croatia” celebrated another successful season, with local youth teams receiving special recognition for sportsmanship.
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AMCA Toronto continued its efforts to support education and student exchange between Canada and Croatia.
Valentina praises these efforts as living proof that patriotism can thrive in quiet acts of compassion and unity.
“We build Croatia not only with words, but with deeds — wherever we are.”
Faith and Reflection
The faith section centers on finding hope amid uncertainty. Drawing inspiration from the parable of the Prodigal Son, the writer encourages readers to embrace forgiveness — for others, and for themselves — as the only path to healing.
“We may wander far, but love always waits at the door.”
This theme of mercy and reconciliation runs parallel to the issue’s broader message about justice and remembrance.
Health Column: “The Weight of Worry”
Dr. Darko Desaty explores the physical effects of chronic anxiety and emotional distress. He explains how constant worry can weaken the heart, strain immunity, and cloud judgment. His advice is both practical and human — urging readers to replace fear with faith, and stress with movement and balance.
“When the heart carries too much fear, it forgets how to beat for joy.”
Letters and Reader Voices
Several letters reflect the growing emotional divide between Croats in the homeland and those abroad. One reader from Mississauga writes:
“We no longer recognize the Croatia we fought for. Yet, even if the faces in power change, our love for her will not.”
Another letter praises Iskra for remaining steadfastly independent and refusing to bow to political pressure.
“When others are silent, Iskra speaks — that is why it matters.”
Closing Reflection
Valentina ends Iskra No. 65 with a poignant thought: that a nation’s greatness is measured not only by its victories, but by how it treats its defenders when the battle is over. She reminds readers that forgiveness and truth are not opposites, but partners in the long road toward peace.
“Let us not be ashamed of our tears — they are proof that we still feel, and therefore still belong.”
