Gifts and Life in the Village of Bušince

Through the long-celebrated, dense Kosovo fog, which often descends in autumn and winter and lingers for days without fully lifting, one can only see the landscape when venturing deep into its centuries-old whiteness.

From Kosovska Kamenica upwards, along a rugged road sometimes guided by narrow paths leading to yards and uphill streets, passing through Rečane and past the Tamnica Monastery , one reaches Bušince. White with snow, fog, and smoke, it appears almost like a vision—between the golden and stony towns of Novo Brdo and Kosovska Kamenica. At the end of this unfinished road, which is the shortest route to both towns, stands a small village school emerging from the fog atop a hill.

Gifts for the School in Bušince

Five students and seven younger children awaited gifts in one of the classrooms. Their parents, grandparents, and uncles were present as well. Everyone was happy and felt it important that someone visited their village. The children ran excitedly, unwrapping new toys with joy. The teacher showed us the school, consisting of a single partitioned classroom and a larger hall for events where we gathered.

It was cozy, warm, and modest. Everyone was surprised by our visit and welcomed us with smiles.

Life in Bušince Today

Bušince is a forgotten and isolated village with no bus connections. Life is harsh for both young families and the older population. They rely on each other for transportation, help, and medicine.

All my friends have left, and my child has no one to grow up with. There’s a small park behind us, but it’s in poor condition, and there’s nothing else. There’s no work, and we sometimes think about leaving too,” shared one young parent.

Bušince Kosovska Kamenica

Challenges in Bušince

Unfortunately, as threats and fear drive the Serbian population from Metohija, neglect and injustice from officials also push people away. In Bušince, there’s no work beyond political connections, blackmail, or humiliation. During our visit, we met a man struggling down the icy hill with a cane and sore legs, waiting for a meal from the local soup kitchen—a poignant example of this neglect.

Life of the Elderly in Bušince

Momčilo Jovanović shared his story in a rush. He lives alone, suffering from leg problems and poverty. Social services are inaccessible, and his house recently burned down. Only the church helped him in his struggle. No Serbian officials had visited, and his belongings and equipment are old and worn, leaving him without the strength to fight against the injustices he faces.

Hope for Each Other

Despite meeting cheerful, hardworking, and hopeful residents, the overall impression is heavy and disheartening. Our villages are emptying, children are moving away, and the elderly suffer—but this could all be very different with responsibility, humanity, and proper planning.