PRIDE WITHOUT PREJUDICE

There have been many accolades and praiseworthy stories written of the loving, peaceful and friendly folks of Fiji by various people and media who had the good fortune to meet and become close friends of these beautiful and remarkable Pacific Islanders of Fiji. No matter what part of Fiji one hails from, the unmistakable and distinctive identity of Fijian friendliness and hospitality would invariably sweep most people off their feet meeting Fijians for the first time. The high praise and continuous acknowledgement of what Fijians are known for as the friendliest people on earth have never abated, now that Fiji is better known as a rugby playing nation, a third world country to be precise, have captured the hearts of people from every part of the world with how we inspired the rest of the world as a small unassuming Islander nation in the South Pacific. To be sharing my thoughts and feelings from a personal perspective of being born and bred in Fiji, would put a clear picture of nationalism or favouritism but in no way detract from the true image in the eyes of overseas visitors experience and relationships. From growing up in that type of environment intermingling in various involvements of educational, social and sporting activities, one will have a better insight, knowledge and experience into the psyche of the folks living in our midst. Fijians are very much cut from the same granite as to a mentality of resilience and compassion. For the observation during the years of living in Fiji, the people being community-minded develop a likeable and friendly attitude toward one another in villages and with all others in the neighbourhood living in close proximity and are always willing to help victims in distress during national disasters and all tragic events. The years of being influenced and raised as benevolent Fijians will always rub off on one another in a place like Fiji, close and personal. It is viewed that the hearts of Fijians simply empathize with their surrounds and would sway their mood of Christian values in the most reverent manner through their spirituality. Not understanding these Fijian enigmatic characteristics is totally lacking in human knowledge especially in a loving community spirit and I have witnessed and felt the warmth and love of a nation who band together under such dire situations and tragedies. Call me patriotic or whatever you like, the feelings of elation run deep in our veins when one is held in high regard among a community of people in Fiji. That is indeed a nation on a mission to love and behold and pave the way for the world to follow under difficult and great times irrespective of colour, creed or race