Roshan Ali reflects on his life’s journey, revealing deep regrets about his education but a profound appreciation for the simple joys that life offers. At 48, he has spent the last two decades working at a vegetable stall in the Suva Municipal Market, a role he embraced after leaving school prematurely at just 15 due to family financial constraints as one of nine siblings.
Ali’s father, a public worker, could not afford to send all his children to school, leading Roshan to leave after his first term in year 11. Despite the setback, he has maintained a fortitude that allows him to focus on the positives. “We were nine siblings, and it was impossible for my father to support all of us in our education,” he shared. After a brief stint as a salesman, he transitioned to the market in 2002, where he appreciates the support he receives from his boss and the ability to provide for his family, including his son.
Reflecting on his life in Suva, Ali expresses gratitude for the opportunities he has in a bustling capital that he found astonishing upon arrival, even mentioning how he now relies on technology like Google Maps to navigate his hometown of Labasa due to significant development. He cherishes memories of his childhood and stresses the importance of valuing education, urging the younger generation to focus on their studies and appreciate their parents’ sacrifices.
Ali’s life story mirrors the narratives of others who have faced adversity and found meaning in resilience. For instance, like Saten Lal, who relocated to Suva seeking better opportunities, Ali’s experience resonates with the shared themes of community, support, and the endurance of the human spirit in the face of obstacles. Both men exemplify perseverance, highlighting their appreciation for family support amid economic challenges.
Through his lived experience, Ali encourages others to find contentment in life’s small pleasures, advocating for a mindset of gratitude, as many people around the world wish for even what little they have. Despite not realizing his childhood dreams, Ali’s outlook provides a hopeful narrative—that finding happiness does not always rely on achieving all one desires but rather on embracing the life one leads and cherishing the relationships built along the way.
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