Congratulations Honeyland!

Honeyland did not win any Oscars, but then they don't give Oscars for integrity, humility and benevolence of human spirit, all of which are found in the delightful, unpretentious Hatidze Murtova.

This beguiling Macedonian documentary film made history with its nomination both for best documentary and best international feature. It is not difficult to understand why. Having lived in Macedonia for fourteen years, I watched with emotional and nostalgic interest as scenes of majestic beauty and tranquility appeared. As details of Hatidze's meager existence were revealed, I was moved by the beauty and simplicity of a life lived against the backdrop of harshness and injustice. Yet the gentle Hatidze displays an outward calm and humility which is rarely seen these days.

Her motto with the honey "take half, leave half" is one we need to adopt in many aspects of life. In her own words, she sums it up: "I want the audience to learn only one message from the film: as I share with my bees I want all the people to share with each other."

Hatidze, thank you for bringing a beautiful message to the world with your unforgettable depth of character and cheerful warmth of heart!

"Let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious."

With or without Oscars, Honeyland remains a timeless masterpiece much needed in a fast-changing, heartless world. Congratulations once again to Tamara Kotevska, Ljubomir Stefanov and team!

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