Stella Maris Primary School, nestled by the ocean in Nasese, is a beacon of gratitude for the natural bounty surrounding their island nation. Gazing out over the vast expanse of water, they're reminded of the abundance of resources bestowed upon them by a generous providence. With hearts full of thanksgiving, they acknowledge the hand of God in the creation of their lush landscapes and teeming seas.
Reflecting on the narrative of God's creation on the third day in Genesis, when the land and seas were formed, the Year 8 class holds the conviction that as we harness the richness of our resources, we must equally prioritize their preservation and conservation for posterity.
However, amidst their appreciation lies a somber realization. The specter of natural disasters, exacerbated by the looming threat of climate change, casts a shadow over their sense of abundance. As they witness the toll exacted upon their environment and fellow islanders, their gratitude is tinged with sorrow.
For every destructive storm or rising sea level, they see not only the physical devastation but also the erosion of their way of life. The struggle to preserve their precious resources, to maintain a delicate balance in the face of mounting challenges, weighs heavily on their young minds.
Yet, even in the face of adversity, hope prevails. Through education and awareness, they strive to empower themselves and others to become stewards of the land and sea. Their gratitude becomes a catalyst for action, driving them to protect and preserve the gifts bestowed upon them by a benevolent creator.
In the halls of Stella Maris, gratitude and resilience go hand in hand. They may lament the loss and hardship wrought by natural disasters, but they refuse to be defined by them. Instead, they choose to honor the beauty and bounty of their island home, recognizing that with every challenge comes an opportunity for growth and renewal.
Ioane Nawaikula is the JPIC Coordinator in Fiji.
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