We have spent a lot of time with local people on many islands in the Pacific, but in Nanumea I ended up making a real friend. Someone who’s company I sought out and who’s conversation and insight I enjoyed. I’ve mentioned her already a few times throughout this narrative already: 1) she’s the woman at the tourist celebration who commented to me that we look like we understand their customs (based on the way we were dressed), 2) she is Government Secretary with whom I discussed the daily anchorage fee, 3) she is the woman I sat and chatted with during the volleyball tournament, 4) her family is the one who gave us tuna for Tim’s birthday, and 5) her daughters are the ones who went out and gathered flowers and then made the headbands and leis for us to wear at the high school talent show on Tim’s birthday.
Sipele is a highly educated and driven woman, as evidenced by her position in the government. We were able to speak openly about our cultures, the differences and similarities, and we learned that we had so much in common regarding our struggles and joy with working while raising a family. When we were saying such a sad good-bye, I told her I was proud to call her a friend, and it wasn’t just something to say. I really meant it.
Sipele patiently showed me how to weave a basket (it’s harder than you think!)
Gresham Family Exodus 