Money makes the world go round but it can’t buy us happiness.

In only causes trouble.

That’s the opinion of Matoiala Faalavaau, 39-years-old from Siufaga Falelatai and Mulifanua.

He is a fisherman and a father to one child.

For Faalavaau, money is useful but it’s not the end of the world.

 “My family is struggling but we try in every way to develop our own family,” he said.

“We solely depend on the sea, and that’s our only income for the day.”

A good catch can earn Faalavaau $200 a day. Other days are not so good.

“This money goes towards my family’s needs such as food, water and electricity bills.”

“We also use it to cater for family obligations.”

Fa’alavaau lives with his wife and child together with his mother-in-law. There are eleven people in their family.

 “As of now I’m still looking for a job to help my family because there are lots of us living together. The money we receive is not enough for more than ten people like my family and that’s why we usually go fishing every day.”

Changes occur and challenges happen but Fa’alavaau believes that we shouldn’t depend on money too much.

 “Everyone has different talents and ways to make money.”

 “The best thing I want for my family is for them to be happy. Whatever we have, we should just be thankful and be grateful for that.”

His final words?

“Money is not the most important thing  but seeing your family happy is what truly matters.”