"It is hard to describe the magic of this place"
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VoroVoro – it is hard to describe the magic of this place – from the moment you step outside when the sun is rising, the first swim with the coral below – eating breakfast looking at the most wonderful view of the sea and sky and chatting to tribe members – the camp fire at night with live music and the brightest and most numerous stars I have ever seen – the laughter, joy and spirituality of the Fijiian people – their generosity and love for each one of us – they taught me so much about being alive and present to this moment, to reduce clutter and focus on the essential – the person you are with at this moment – to have a deeply grateful heart for the beauty of each person and for the wonder of nature all around – the sunrises and sunsets – the stars, the trees, flowers, shrubs, the underworld of coral reefs and beautifully coloured fish – my first time of snorkelling! what an adventure and I was lent a waterproof camera cover so that I could take my ‘land’ camera to photograph the incredible diversity on the ocean bed.
having taught all my life, it was a joy too to be with the children on a neighbouring island and to experience their energy, enthusiasm, spontaneity and wonderful singing -
thank you each tribe member for all you have given me – I was somewhat apprehensive being a ‘golden gapper’ that I would be a hindrance on the island but was so aware of the love and respect that the Fijiians give to the older generation and I was helped in so many ways which would take another paragraph.
I am sure that the friends we all made and the simplicity and joy that we shared with the Fijiians will be part of all our lives in the years to come and I am profoundly grateful to all of you for an unforgetable and very wonderful experience.
for all those I met, my prayer and love enfold you in the years to come – ‘pray for me as I will for thee, that we may merrily meet in heaven’ (St Thomas More) it is closer than Fiji!
Comments
Bula sia Caroline, it is wrong to call yourself a golden gapper as u had so much energy and enthusiasm that some could take a leaf out of your book. I will miss hearing your singing whilst you went for your early morning swim, always made me smile whilst I swung in my hammock reading. I am trying to get a job of sorts on the Island so that more people can enjoy my eggy bread breakfasts on sunday. Was such a shock to see you at LA airport, hope ur flight was ok as I watched movies all the way home. Look after yourself.
Jason xx
bula caroline,
its so awesome to read your thoughts and experiences after being lucky enough to spend time with you on the island. your singing is very much missed. hope your well, take care.x
I miss you Caroline!!!
i’m so sorry i didn’t get to meet you, caroline, but i’m sure gilo’s enthusiasm and energy come from somewhere! thrilled that you were able to see what we’ve all fallen in love with, and i hope you know you’re always welcome back! moce mada.
Caroline,
Our times on the island did not overlap unfortunately. I was there back in Feb and I know how excited Giles was that you were coming. I am very glad that you enjoyed your visit. It sounds like you made the most of it. Way to go. You have reared a
very wonderful son who added so much to my time on Vorovoro, thank you.
Kevin
Very beautiful Caroline, I think you have completely captured the whole essence of this special island! You really were an asset and have been very much missed since; especially your spontaneous singing, your overwhelming positiveness and love as well as your incredible spirit. You were very much an inspiration to everyone and you definitely can do anything if you put your mind to it!:) I thoroughly enjoyed spending time chatting with you and really appreciated our walk to collect firewood as well as exploring the hidden beach on my birthday; you really did make it a very special morning and I will never forget it. (Ooh I will also never forget you bringing out the now famous ‘flip flop fly squatter’ either! He he! :)
A very big vinaka vaka levu to our adopted mum x
Oh Caroline, I missed you too, no one managed to bring in the sunrise quite like you did. And that fly squatter was one of my funniest moments on Vorovoro! I really enjoyed our chats, and I hope I will be as lively and exciting when I reach that golden gapping age you consider yourself!
Bula sia Caroline, such a joy to have met and hung out with you. You are one of the best and your excited giggles and seaward sirensong will be remembered by any of us privileged enough to hear it for many years to come. A pity Jim wasn’t out there with the recording equipment but c’est la vie – we have our memory for your singing. Vinaka for your thoughts, a grateful heathen. xx
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