Bill and his family have opened their home so that we could experience a little bit more about daily life in the islands of Fiji. This is not a resort stay, but that wasn’t what we wanted. They taught us so much about graciousness in the face of need, respect for others, faith in community, and humility for what they are blessed with every day. Most of what they have comes either from the mountain or from the sea. They garden, they fish, and they share. They don’t take more than they need. The fishing on Saturday was for the whole village, so that they could worship on Sunday.
We donated supplies for the village school. That morning Bill organized kids into a beach-cleaning work detail. He said that it was important for the kids to learn to give, before they receive. What an amazing concept in any culture.
We went out to swim with the sharks. “One of us” isn’t a thrill seeker, but finally got in the water. Our mantra when we got home? Grandma touched a shark!
Yes, we paid Paula for her homecooked meals. Yes, we paid Bill for the airport to island transfers. And, yes, they made the whole experience memorable. Thanks for sharing your home, your family, your culture, and your community. Give Eva a big hug.