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Remembering

We had two mugs, four plates,
decorated with suns, right from the painter,
sugar in five lumps, four fairy tales,
two rings on installments, empty compartments…

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This song by Hana Zagorova once deeply touched me. I listened to it many times, and although it might seem like just another pop hit, I believe it held a profound message. It reminded us that retaining the childlike, boundless enthusiasm for something that becomes our daily routine in life is a challenge for many of us. It showed that finding joy in little things can make life much happier than the endless luxury enjoyed without a pinch of joy.

 

Hanka (Hanicka Pisnicka) was a distinguished lady with a big heart, and a heartwarming personal connection later brought us together. She contacted me years ago and offered to raise money for our “Lunches for Children” project during one of her concerts. Not only did she actually raise the money from her fans, but she also added a contribution from her own funds. She had a big heart.

 

She was known for her down-to-earth character, and the common saying “Don’t be like Zagorka” didn’t suit her at all. She wasn’t afraid to stand out from the crowd. Even her signature on “A Few Words” was a blow below the belt for the “comrades” during the totalitarian regime. Her songs made many of us happier and more cheerful. It’s a shame that her time was only temporary…

Hanka, may the skies be azure for you.

IT

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