The Voice of Life

Glas življenja The Zavod ŽIV!M held its fifth concert this year, celebrating the beauty and value of human life through music and storytelling. The event, which has been streamed online after the first three live performances, featured emotional narratives shared by participants who have faced challenging circumstances. One such story came from Cvetka Kalan, whose childhood was marked by abuse and neglect. Born into a large family, she described growing up in an environment filled with fear and anger, where her mother was emotionally unstable and her father an alcoholic. She recounted being physically abused by family members and experiencing sexual assault during adolescence. Despite these hardships, she eventually gave birth to a child under difficult conditions, though the experience left her deeply scarred. Over time, she fell into depression, turned to alcohol, and struggled with self-loathing. However, she later found solace in faith, embracing spiritual practices and ultimately finding peace through reconciliation with her children and commitment to a divine purpose. Another poignant account came from the couple Marina and Edo Dolinar, who chose to welcome their fifth child despite medical advice suggesting termination due to Down syndrome. Initially, Marina felt conflicted, having grown up in an environment where multiple pregnancies had ended in loss. Yet, Edo’s unwavering support led them to embrace their new child. Their journey included personal growth, healing, and discovering a deeper connection with each other and with God. They described their son as a miracle, emphasizing how his presence brought profound meaning to their lives and challenged societal perceptions of strength and worth. The narrative continued with Milka Nzobandora, a young woman who once viewed the world with optimism and high expectations. Her relationship with Celestina began as friendship but evolved into love. However, she soon felt disillusionment, believing Celestina's African heritage made their relationship unconventional. She decided to end the relationship, yet the encounter left a lasting impact on her understanding of identity and acceptance. This story highlights the complexities of personal choices and the influence of cultural norms on individual relationships. These stories, among others, were shared during the concert, offering listeners a glimpse into the resilience of individuals navigating adversity. The event served not only as a celebration of life but also as a platform for reflection on the challenges people face and the ways they find hope and meaning. Each participant's journey underscored the importance of empathy, forgiveness, and the transformative power of faith. As the organizers emphasized, the event aimed to inspire and connect, reminding attendees of the enduring value of human existence.