Voices for Croatia

Published: February 28, 2001
View the Original Newsletter: Iskra-75.pdf

About This Issue

Iskra No. 75 opens the new year with a heartfelt question — who will continue the Croatian story? In her lead editorial, Valentina Krčmar reflects on community, identity, and the generational bridge that must be built to keep Croatian culture alive in Canada. The issue also features community updates, faith reflections, and practical health advice, all underscored by a spirit of gratitude and renewal.

Editorial: “Who Will Continue the Croatian Story?”

Inspired by U.S. President George W. Bush’s inaugural address about the “continuing American story,” Valentina asks a powerful question of her own: Who will continue the Croatian story here — in Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, Brampton?

She observes that Croatian associations in Canada are largely sustained by older generations, while younger Croatians — despite being talented and well-educated — are often absent from community life.

“In almost every organization, the average age of the active member is over forty-five. We have youth who could lead, but we rarely invite them to.”

Valentina laments that young people too often feel unwelcome or dismissed. Some have even been told to “wait their turn” while older members continue to occupy leadership roles. Yet outside the community, Croatian youth are excelling — in universities, businesses, and the arts — proof of their capacity to make a difference.

“If we do not reach out to them now, our community will fade with us.”

She calls on readers to take personal responsibility — to make phone calls, extend invitations, and create space for younger voices. She emphasizes the role of parish priests in reconnecting generations, and urges patience and encouragement rather than criticism.

Her closing thought ties back to the very heart of Iskra’s mission:

“Our Croatian story will continue only if we realize it belongs to all of us — old and young alike. We must pass the torch with love, wisdom, and perseverance.”

Motrišta: “Even Today, We Must Do Something”

Continuing the theme of action and responsibility, Valentina quotes Ronald Reagan’s words: “Even today, we must do something to preserve the future.” She reflects on how easily people complain about decline but fail to act.

“It is not enough to love our heritage in words; we must serve it with deeds.”

The column blends moral encouragement with practical wisdom — urging readers to see community involvement not as an obligation, but as an act of gratitude for those who built the foundations before them.

National Highlights: A Fragile Unity

In Croatia, political tensions remained high as Prime Minister Ivica Račan’s coalition government struggled with disunity. President Stjepan Mesić’s remarks about The Hague Tribunal continued to divide public opinion, while questions about national honor and veterans’ rights dominated the news.

Valentina summarizes the climate with calm clarity:

“Every young democracy must learn balance — between truth and politics, justice and pride. Croatia’s strength lies in facing its past without losing faith in its future.”

Community Life in Canada

The issue celebrates vibrant events that brought warmth to the long Canadian winter:

The Croatian Martyrs Parish in Mississauga hosted a sold-out Valentine’s dinner and dance, raising funds for community programs.
Bedem Ljubavi Toronto continued its humanitarian support for families in need throughout Croatia.
The Croatian Cultural Centre in Hamilton announced spring concerts featuring youth folk ensembles, proving that heritage can thrive when the next generation is included.

Valentina highlights these activities as examples of the very engagement she hopes to see multiplied:

“These are the small sparks that keep the fire alive.”

Faith and Reflection: “The Gift of Example”

The faith section focuses on the power of example in shaping moral and spiritual character. The author reminds readers that children learn more from the behavior they witness than from the words they hear.

“Faith begins in the home — not with sermons, but with kindness.”

The message complements the issue’s overarching theme: passing down not only traditions, but values.

Health Column: “Protecting the Liver — The Body’s Silent Worker”

Dr. Darko Desaty provides guidance on caring for the liver through balanced diet and lifestyle. He outlines how excessive fat, alcohol, and medication can strain the organ, and emphasizes the importance of hydration, rest, and regular exercise.

“When the liver suffers, the whole body speaks in fatigue.”

As always, his advice merges scientific understanding with gentle mindfulness, reminding readers that health and harmony go hand in hand.

Closing Words

Valentina closes Iskra No. 75 with quiet optimism. Despite the challenges of aging communities and changing times, she believes that the Croatian story will endure — as long as love, faith, and dedication continue to guide it.