This Christmas promises to be particularly memorable for 70-year-old Selai Biu, as she prepares to return to her ancestral village in Lakeba, Lau, after a 30-year absence. Her excitement is amplified by the fact that she will be reunited with her family, especially her brother.
The journey back holds another layer of significance for Ms. Biu. After the catastrophic volcanic eruption in Tonga in 2022, which was followed by a devastating tsunami that destroyed numerous homes, she invested the last two years in reconstructing her family home on the island. Now, excited to see the completed renovations, she and her brother are traveling by boat to witness firsthand the results of their hard work.
Last Thursday, Ms. Biu joined a crowd at Port Mua-i-Walu, where she boarded the MV Lomaiviti Princess XII alongside her daughter, Akosita Waqa, and her sister-in-law, Manaini Rawasa. “I’m excited to see what has become of the home. I’m taking a few things to help start decorating it,” she expressed.
Ms. Biu plans to spend both Christmas and New Year’s in Lakeba before returning to Waibau, Naitasiri, where she lives with her husband and their four children.
This heartwarming story highlights resilience and the importance of family during the holiday season. While natural disasters pose significant challenges, the spirit of rebuilding and coming together can restore hope and joy in such times. Ms. Biu’s journey serves as an inspiration to others who may face similar struggles, showcasing the strength of the human spirit in overcoming adversity.
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