Raised in Qila, Taveuni, 56-year-old Giri Kumari Lal embodies resilience and sacrifice throughout her life journey. After marrying young, she relocated to Levuka with her in-laws, where she quickly adapted to her new role and began supporting her husband in farming while nurturing their growing family.
Recognizing the importance of education and opportunity for their children, Giri and her husband made the challenging decision to move to Suva. They briefly lived with Giri’s supportive brother in Duilomaloma, Sawani, a gesture she continues to appreciate deeply as it helped them establish themselves in the capital.
With determination, the couple managed to purchase a small piece of land in Wailase. Giri recalls their initial hardship: the land they bought was uncultivated, requiring them to clear trees and use that wood to make ends meet. Selling firewood by the roadside, despite facing judgment, became their means of survival, allowing them to slowly carve out a life in Suva.
As the land was cleared, Giri and her husband worked diligently to turn it into a productive farm, cultivating vegetables and root crops. Giri fondly remembers her late husband’s unwavering work ethic, which contributed significantly to the family’s success.
Together, they raised and educated their four children, consistently transporting their produce to market while maintaining their farming duties. Following her husband’s passing, Giri found strength in her children and transitioned from farming to become a vendor. She now buys from other farmers and sells produce at her stall, which provides her with both income and a sense of purpose.
Giri emphasizes her desire to remain active, stating that her work is not solely for financial necessity but also for enjoyment and engagement. Her children are now all employed and have established their own lives, reflecting the solid foundation their parents built through years of hard work and perseverance.
Looking back, Giri reflects proudly on her journey. The struggles she faced while selling firewood and clearing land were pivotal in creating a brighter future for her family, showcasing the power of resilience in the face of adversity.
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