We all have different ways of dealing with the cost of living.

Not all families earn money from people working in a bank or a store.

For some, they earn their living through the work of their hands.

Falaniko Tuala, 38, from Vaitele is one of them.

He sells coconuts and eggplants to earn money for his family. 

His family includes more than ten people.

“It’s really hard to care for a family of more than ten people,” he said.

“We have parents sisters and brothers and their children living together. So instead of looking for a job, it’s best for me to stay home and develop the vegetable garden to earn money.”

Falaniko has no wife and kids.

But he knows he has a part to play to provide for his family.

“I usually do this every day, selling it from morning till evening. The money I earn depends. Sometimes it’s good, others not so good.”

 “The money I earn helps my family to pay the water and electricity bills, church donations.”

Falaniko says the cost of living is too high for him and his family.

“It only means we have to work harder,” he said.

“There is nothing we can do. But if I can sell a few more coconuts and eggplants, I know I can make a difference.”