For 86-year-old Vanavasa Vone, the essence of Christmas is deeply rooted in family, love, and generosity, rather than the extravagance often associated with modern celebrations. Living in Raiwaqa and surrounded by his children and grandchildren, Vone feels incredibly fortunate to spend this festive period with his loved ones.
Reflecting on the past, Vone recalls when Christmas was a grand event, where the entire village would unite to cook and share meals. “In the past, Christmas was a grand affair. The entire village would come together to cook and share food,” he reminisces, highlighting the communal spirit that characterized earlier celebrations. Although such large gatherings have diminished over the years, Vone is steadfast in his belief that the core values of Christmas remain unchanged.
“The gathering may be small now, but the love is still there. People still share; people still care — and that’s what Christmas is about,” he remarks, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections over size and spectacle.
One of his grandchildren, who currently works on Kokomo Island, shares her delight in returning home for the holidays. “I was so happy because not every year we are here, and it’s just great to be here for my grandfather,” she expresses, underlining the significance of family bonds during this festive time.
As Fiji evolves, Vone expresses hope that younger generations will cherish the timeless virtues that have long defined Christmas — love, generosity, and togetherness. This holiday season, the spirit of Christmas shines brightly for Vone, illustrating the enduring importance of familial connections and shared memories during this special time of year. Through his reflections, he serves as a reminder of the true heart of Christmas, which lies in the bonds we cultivate with each other.