I spent most of my life here in America. Sad to admit, but growing up I was somewhat embarrassed to be Tongan. Embarrassed to be different. I hated wearing the "vala fk-tonga" (tongan attire). I just wanted to fit in. But that was hard when you are the minority in school.
It wasn't until junior high that my attitude changed. I met more fellow tongans. We were going to a tongan ward. I began to embrace my culture. I didn't quite understand some of the traditions, but I was becoming aware of them.
Now that I am 35 years young (LOL), I could not be any prouder. I do wish I spoke better Tongan -- and that I am practicing. I hope to familiarize my kids with the tongan culture. I want them to learn and understand the tongan language. As far as tongan food -- that is not a problem. That is definitely something my kids adapted to when they were born. Going to Tonga with them would not be a problem foodwise.
Back in '98, we took our two oldest boys with us to Tonga. Soni was about 2 years old and Nohe'a a little over 1. It was my first time back in Tonga since leaving back in '79. I was taken back by a lot of things and decided then that when my kids are older, I would take them back to Tonga to experience and see what it's like to live in Tonga.
Just a few weeks ago, Soni had the opportunity to go with his grandpa and Haloti for my Uncle Epeli's funeral. I wanted so bad to go -- mainly to see and experience how a funeral is done in Tonga. But unfortunately due to work, I could not go. They did take a few pictures:
Haloti, Soni & dad
Soni with Aunty Naite (my fahu) - my dad's oldest sister
My first cousin Aiona (Uncle Ta'u's daughter) getting her hair cut by first cousin Fapiola (Aunty Naite's daughter) -- a tongan tradition after a funeral
First cousin Kalo (Uncle Sione's daughter) getting her hair cut
First cousin Lusia's turn
My beautiful first cousins after their hair was cut
Don't ask about the specifics on certain traditions - because I am still learning. What I do know for sure? I am proud of my tongan culture. Some of the traditions may seem different, but that's what makes all of us unique! My goal? To teach my kids as much as I know about their tongan culture!
Below is a video by some of my cousins (3HD) -- so perfect for this post!
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5 comments:
I love our Tongan Heritage!! Although I am married to a Nicaraguan, I do my best in making sure my children know their heritage...I think I'm doing too much of a great job at that, that my kids think they're ONLY TONGAN!!hahahha..
I love your blog!!
I totally agree, I LOVE being tongan. I have always known that it is a tradition to cut your hair after a funeral and finally got to experience it first hand after my grandpa passed. My mom and all her sisters lined up with money in their hair and the fahu cut their hair. I'm so proud and even get teased by my first cousin's because I try my best to come correct. This past weekend we were learning a tongan hymn with the notes replaced with numbers. i remember learning when i was younger so it quickly came back. The director was a little surprised because I'm white, but I totally try to embrace it. Good job, Sinai!
I love my culture too. When I actually get to be a part of the true Samoan traditional ways, I'm always at awe with it all. It is beautiful at all levels. As I am sure it is the Tongan traditions. I want my kids to experience their culture as well. Good post Sinai. I love your blog!
I totally understand what you're saying and went through the same thing at about the same time. :)Great post, Sinai:)
Love it sis!! what a great experience for Soni!! Lucky duck, like you I would love to have been there for a funeral done traditionally!!!
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