The importance of teamwork

By Ilia L. Likou 02 February 2017, 12:00AM

Tavita Amituana’i, a father and grandfather from Nu’u-Fou understands that families who care for one another always think about each other’s well-being.

“That is my family, that is how we work together to survive every day.” Tavita told the Village Voice.

“I have three children...they are at work and they support our family financially.

 “We stay under one roof and this is what family is all about. No matter how old your children are, they still need parents to help and support them in whatever way we can.

“To be honest, this really works and is even more effective if we take the time to support the needs of each other in our family. 

“As you can see around the house, I plant bananas, spring onions, cucumbers and other vegetables.

“I believe that nowadays it’s not that easy anymore, people are struggling but in my family , this is how we support each others.

“We work together as a team, they (children) play their part; we as parents do the same.

“I know that all Samoan families are struggling every day with money no matter how well their children pay them every week or fortnight.

“I’m talking about those fa’alavelave, village and church obligations with countless stuff that we’re dealing with everyday.

“My only advice is to take what is best for our family as the saying goes...family first.

He said that in his family - ‘everyone is responsible and everyone counts’

“Very simple, from there you begin to enjoy and see healthier days together, and your family will grow closer and closer.

“There are challenges along the way, sometimes the money to meet our daily needs not match what we have.

“But, that’s when we decided to sell tomatoes and cucumbers for money to buy sugar and cash items.

Tavita believes that happiness in a family is a choice.

“Stay happy every day and being happy doesn’t mean everything is perfect, it means you’ve decided to look beyond the imperfections and keep on working.

“Happiness is something that always comes from within so if we’re happy my, children will act the same.

 “It’s good to choose to take care of our families, choose to be around them all the time with a good attitude.

“Family is a teamwork!

He said that sharing is always about caring.

“I always remind my children that there comes a time they retire from work, but working on the land is something that they need to look at so that they can continue on in life.

“There’s no point of sitting around in your old age while your children and your childrens’ children are suffering.

“Life has gotten harder and harder and we never know what tomorrow will bring, they need to be smart.

He went on to say that family bonds are tied with love.

“Yes, life begins in family.” he said.

“If you show your children the right path for them to survive the coming years...show them true love, attention, discipline and other positive attitudes.

 “For united we stand, divided we fall.

By Ilia L. Likou 02 February 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

Upgrade to Premium

Subscribe to
Samoa Observer Online

Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. You can cancel anytime.

>