This year's olive harvest season on the island of Brač has once again brought a story that reminds us of the importance of community, empathy and selfless support. At the centre of that story is a member and volunteer of the 'Bračke šape' association, who was unexpectedly surprised by her fellow pickers.
The 'Bračke šape' association has been involved in rescuing and caring for abandoned animals for years, and one of its members and volunteers is also part of a team of local olive pickers. She has been picking olives with that team for several years, so she did not expect the surprise she experienced during this year's harvest.
The team of pickers decided to surprise the volunteer during a snack break. On that occasion, they handed her a gift wrapped in a napkin, which contained 120 euros. It was a gesture by which the fellow pickers wanted to show their support and gratitude to the volunteer for her work.
The volunteer responded to the gift with thanks. She thanked the team on behalf of all the residents of 'Our little village', but also in her personal name, conveying how much such a surprise meant to her.
This year's olive harvest on Brač thus gained, alongside the usual work in the olive groves, a warm story of solidarity among people. It showed how, in everyday moments, such as a shared snack during the harvest, those who dedicate their time to caring for others can be recognised and supported.
