About Humanity. About Attitude Towards Life in Greece. And How We Were Offered Free Accommodation.

When we started looking for a rental house here in Greece, we met a fantastic woman at a local artisan burger place who made an incredible offer to us—strangers—out of the kindness of her heart. When we asked her why she did this, she replied that humanity is disappearing from our society, and if she is kind to others, she believes she might receive help herself if she ever needs it.

The woman, Spiridula, with her jet-black hair and blue eyes, left us with a strange feeling. She was so different, a beautiful being with extraordinary energy. There was something indescribable about her. Otherworldly.

We had already found a small apartment for a short-term stay, but we began searching for a house with a yard for a longer-term rental. In Greece, not everything happens online. You must spread the word, make new contacts, and ask the locals. Ladokolla is a fantastic burger spot in Neos Marmaras, where everything for their burgers is handmade. Delicious and affordable, a handcrafted burger the size of a child’s head, served with homemade fries, costs just five euros.

Last year, we briefly got to know the chef there. We planned to go back to eat and greet him. During the conversation, we mentioned we were looking for a house. Another employee, Spiridula, joined in and immediately began brainstorming, asking about us, our kids, and our travels. We’ve experienced incredible care and hospitality in Greece before, but for a stranger to offer such help… wow!

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She offered that if we couldn’t stay in our current apartment anymore, we could stay at her home for a couple of nights, use the shower, and do laundry. Even though we didn’t need that help then, the offer was incredible. Just knowing that if something went wrong, help was available felt reassuring. She even offered to help with childcare if needed. Offering free babysitting out of the goodness of her heart so we could focus on house hunting or work if necessary—what a fantastic gesture from a stranger to strangers. That’s something you wouldn’t easily encounter back home in Estonia.

Spiridula owns a house in Neos Marmaras. She showed us pictures of it. A Bulgarian had purchased it, had it half-demolished by her, and then disappeared. Now, it’s in a legally complicated situation. While showing us the pictures, she also showed drone videos. Not far from the town but in a secluded spot on a mountaintop, she has a newly built house surrounded by her olive grove. The area is home to birds, cats, dogs, eagles, jackals, and snakes. On an evening walk, I heard the jackals howling, and the following evening, we heard them much closer to our current yard.

After chatting a bit more, she offered us that house for free. The only downside is that the solar panels have temporarily been removed, so there’s currently no electricity.

I asked her why she was so willing to help us. She replied that it was because humanity is disappearing from our society. People can’t see beyond their immediate needs, values are changing, and material things are being prioritized over humanity, caring for one another, and noticing each other. According to her, we need to help each other. She wants to help because one day, if she needs help, maybe someone will offer it.

As we wrapped up our conversation, she emphasized several times that if we needed anything, we should come to the restaurant and find her, and she would help us with whatever she could. After speaking with Spiridula, I felt very strange. Almost enchanted. I had chills all over. A similar feeling came over me in Crete when I talked to a small man who appeared out of nowhere, shared much-needed advice and wisdom, and then disappeared as mysteriously as he had come. You can read about it here: https://itsmemaria.com/how-moving-abroad-can-transform-your-perspective/

We wanted to bring Spiridula a traditional New Year’s Eve cake with a lucky coin inside, as is customary in Greece. But then we heard the sad news: Spiridula was in the hospital because her son had been in a motorcycle accident and needed surgery. We are sending all our best wishes to their family from here!

Spiridula made Tuljo, and I reflect on everything we’ve experienced recently and what truly matters in life. There seems to be more malice up north, while here, we’ve undoubtedly encountered more kindness—and that’s part of why we fell in love with Greece in the first place. We’ve experienced so much goodness here. And indeed, it’s essential to notice, help, and support each other. Kindness begets kindness, and while living in Greece, we’ve become more helpful and attentive because this society radiates so much more of it than back home.

Thank you, dear soul Spiridula, for this valuable reminder! Even though we didn’t need help then, it’s comforting to know that someone here in this foreign land is ready to help. This time, it’s taking us a bit longer to break free from the bubble of Estonia, but we’ll try to open our hearts even more to the beauty here and enjoy life to the fullest. On to new adventures!