Many siblings go through tumultuous relationships during their younger years, particularly in their teenage days. However, as they grow up, leave their childhood homes, and build their own families, they often come to view one another as equals and close friends.
Research suggests that a strong bond between siblings in early adulthood can lead to “greater resilience” in later years, resulting in reduced feelings of “loneliness, anxiety, and depression.” This observation is evident in the lives of three siblings residing in Tukavesi village, located in Buca Bay between the Tunuloa and Cakaudrove districts.
Aseri Tavuna Vakabua, at 92 years old, lives with his younger sister, Miriama Maiwaidranu Vakabua, who is 88 and widowed. Their sister Vika Vakabua, 84, lives nearby, closer to the beach, with her daughter. Despite this distance, Vika often feels a strong connection to her older siblings.
The siblings attribute their enduring bond to a family and religious upbringing rooted in Christian principles of love and kindness. In contrast to many families where jealousy and resentment can create divisions, the story of the Vakabua siblings serves as an inspiration.
“We live together. It can be challenging sometimes due to our age and different personalities, but it’s important to care for one another; we are siblings,” Miriama expressed.
Miriama takes primary responsibility for Aseri, who has been weaker and unwell lately, ensuring he eats properly and stays healthy. “I’m always by his side, and seeing him suffer worries me. Just last week, he was ill, and I had to give him herbal remedies to help him recover,” she noted.
Miriama has easy access to herbal medicine from the forests surrounding Tukavesi, and she trusts it more than conventional medicine. She recounted a time when she prepared a special herbal mix to prevent Aseri from needing surgery, which ultimately cured him.
Vika, on the other hand, prepares and delivers meals to her siblings daily, without fail, believing that serving one another is an essential family duty. “I don’t keep track of time; as soon as I finish cooking, I take food to them. I pray for the strength to continue this work,” she stated.
On the day of the interview, Vika was preparing rice and fried eggplant for lunch. She emphasized that she aims to provide the best meals for her siblings using wholesome cooking methods. Although she used to catch fish for meals in her youthful days, she now relies on garden produce due to her advancing age.
“I grew up in a household that valued hard work and healthy eating,” Vika shared, explaining her preference for a predominantly vegetarian diet, which she believes has contributed to her longevity.
Aseri believes that living a long life is a privilege that comes from making healthy lifestyle choices. “At 92, I owe my longevity to wise decisions. I never indulged in excessive drinking or smoking,” he advised, encouraging others to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid stress.
For Miriama, faith plays a significant role in her longevity. “I regularly read the Bible, even without my glasses. Prayer and scripture reading provide me with strength and happiness,” she revealed.
While Miriama prays for her and Aseri’s well-being, she also includes Vika in her prayers, grateful for her younger sister’s unwavering support. “We are fortunate to have a younger sister who is so loving and dedicated, providing us with daily nourishment,” Miriama said.
The Vakabua siblings exemplify how family deeply influences personal values and character. Siblings raised in a nurturing environment tend to express love and care for one another, weathering challenges together. While sibling relationships can be complex and evolve over time, a foundation built on love, respect, and understanding can lead to a fulfilling life filled with unexpected blessings.