(source: International Women’s Club of Bratislava)
Love is more than fleeting romance—it is the quiet strength behind every act of kindness, every hand extended to lift another. As February invites us to celebrate love, the International Women’s Club of Bratislava embraces its deepest meaning: love in action, love in service, and love that truly conquers all.
Valentine’s Day February arrives wrapped in hues of red and pink, adorned with hearts and roses, whispering sweet nothings about love. But beyond the commercialized gestures, there lies a deeper, more profound essence of this season—one that extends far beyond romantic love and into the realms of compassion, generosity, and human connection.
At the International Women’s Club of Bratislava (IWCB), love is not just a transient sentiment; it is a practice, a commitment, a way of living.
Each year, through our Charity Christmas Bazaar, we embody the very essence of love in action. The funds we raise with the help of embassies, international communities, and Slovak supporters allow us to extend care to those in need. This act of giving, of uplifting others, is a testament to how love transcends words and manifests in deeds.
But why do we celebrate love in February? The origins of Saint Valentine’s Day are shrouded in mystery, yet they all trace back to a man who stood for love in its most courageous form. One legend speaks of Saint Valentine, a Roman priest, who defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriages for young soldiers, believing in the sanctity of love and union. He secretly officiated weddings until he was discovered and martyred on February 14th. Another story suggests he helped persecuted Christians and left behind a note signed “Your Valentine.” Whichever version holds the most truth, one thing is certain: Saint Valentine’s legacy is not about grand declarations or extravagant gifts but about defying barriers, choosing love over fear, and standing for kindness even in adversity. And so, we take inspiration from this. Through the IWCB, we weave love into the fabric of our work—not just in February but throughout the year. Our fundraising efforts help support shelters, aid families in crisis, and uplift the most vulnerable. Every embassy, every visitor who purchases a gift or a plate of international cuisine at our Bazaar, is a part of this love story.
As we celebrate this month of affection, let us remember that true love—be it for a partner, a friend, a stranger, or a cause—thrives in action, in giving, in lifting one another up. Love, after all, is not just about what we say; it is about what we do.
Amor Vincit Omnia—Love Conquers All!
Eva Staronova is a founder of a non-profit cultural and educational exchange organization in New York, NY, and an entrepreneur in the natural product industry with her company based in Los Angeles, CA. She is also a board member and Fundraising Coordinator of the International Women’s Club of Bratislava.
