The allure of village life continues to captivate the hearts of many young individuals, who experience a simpler, more fulfilling way of living that starkly contrasts with the urban hustle. This sentiment was beautifully captured in the recent jaunt by cousins Josifini Tadu Elma Naleba, George Balolo Lee, and Pita Naleba Lee to their grandmother’s village of Makadru in Matuku, Lau, where they indulged in cherished family activities and the richness of nature.

Eleven-year-old Josifini, who visits Matuku annually, recounted her joyful experiences of the trip, which included picking sea grapes, tasting raw vasua, and going on nocturnal crab-catching excursions with her cousins. For her, the days spent in the village are not merely fun; they are a time of meaningful connections and learning.

“Whatever we have, we shared it,” she emphasized, reflecting on the importance of family and shared resources, an essence that is often lost in the fast-paced city life. This theme of sharing reverberated through the experiences of her brothers, who relished the thrill of family bonding while fishing and pig hunting.

Similarly, this celebration of familial ties echoes another heartwarming narrative from the past weeks about the Taufa family, whose excitement at traveling back to their home island for Christmas showcased the profound importance of family gatherings and togetherness during the holiday season.

Both stories exemplify how these moments spent in the village or with family, whether during festive times or holiday retreats, foster a sense of belonging and build cherished memories that last a lifetime.

In contrast to the often stressful and material-driven urban lifestyle, these rural experiences highlight the simplicity of life where joy is derived from nature and loved ones. It serves as a reminder that the essence of happiness often lies in shared experiences and connections rather than material wealth.

As the cousins returned to Suva filled with beautiful memories, it’s clear that these visits to the village provide more than just a break from routine – they instill valuable lessons about community, love, and nature that resonate well into adulthood, serving as a hopeful narrative in the often busy and disconnected urban experience. This rich tapestry of family events help to strengthen bonds and instill values that generations can carry forth, preserving the wisdom of simpler times.