Caring for Our Own: The Golden Meaning of Care in Malta

Imagine this: a bustling street in Sliema, the sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. Amidst the humdrum of evening commuters, a elderly woman, Mrs. Maria, struggles with her shopping bags. In an instant, a young man, a complete stranger, stops, offers his help, and walks her to her doorstep. This is not just a random act of kindness; it’s a testament to Malta’s golden meaning of care.

Care: More Than a Word

Care, in Malta, is not just a word. It’s a way of life, a cultural norm that weaves through our everyday interactions. It’s the reason why Malta ranks high in the World Happiness Report, despite its size and economic challenges. It’s the glue that binds our communities, making our islands feel like one big, tightly-knit family.

But what does this golden meaning of care entail? It’s about looking out for one another, not just our family and friends, but our neighbours, our colleagues, even strangers. It’s about empathy, understanding, and action. It’s about being there for each other, not just in times of crisis, but in the mundane, everyday moments.

Care in Action: Local Initiatives

From community initiatives to government policies, care is evident in various forms across Malta.

Volunteer Malta, a non-profit organisation, is a testament to this. Based in Msida, they connect volunteers with various causes, from environmental conservation to supporting the elderly. Their work is a reflection of Malta’s caring spirit, with volunteers dedicating their time and skills to make a difference.

Then there’s Age Concern Malta, a charity dedicated to improving the quality of life for older people. Their services, ranging from day care centres to befriending services, are a practical expression of care. They understand that care isn’t just about physical needs; it’s about emotional well-being too.

Care in Policy: The Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector

Malta’s commitment to care is also reflected in its policies. The Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) is a government agency that supports and promotes volunteering. They organise events like the National Volunteer Week, celebrating and encouraging volunteerism. Their work is a testament to Malta’s understanding that care is a collective responsibility.

the government’s initiatives towards social care, like the National Dementia Strategy and the Active Ageing Strategy, show a commitment to caring for all ages. These policies aren’t just about ticking boxes; they’re about creating a society where everyone feels valued and cared for.

Care in Everyday Life

But care isn’t just about big initiatives and policies. It’s about the small, everyday moments. It’s about the baker who remembers your favourite pastry, the bus driver who waits an extra second, the teacher who goes the extra mile. It’s about the community WhatsApp groups that organise help for those in need. It’s about the ‘Good Morning’ and ‘How are you?’ that aren’t just pleasantries, but genuine inquiries.

This is the golden meaning of care in Malta. It’s not perfect, and there’s always room for improvement. But it’s this care, this sense of community, that makes Malta more than just a place to live. It makes it a home.

So, let’s cherish this golden meaning of care. Let’s nurture it, celebrate it, and pass it on. Because care, after all, is what makes us Maltese.

As the late poet and writer, Oliver Friggieri, once said, “Malta is not just a piece of land, it’s a feeling.” And that feeling, at its core, is care.