When you have known hardship and struggle your entire life, all you want is a better future for your children and grandchildren that is what 73-year-old Taliilagi Paepae Ah Heni wishes for Christmas. 

He can only hope for a better life for his family.

This will be the first Christmas the Ah Heni family will spend in their new home. Their old abode was a tiny structure shared by Mr. Ah Heni, his children, their spouses, and grandchildren.

The elderly man believes in the simple things in life and he does not desire much more than for his family to have a better life than he has had to endure.

In an interview with the Samoa Observer, the father of nine said although his family has had challenges in life, God's love and guidance sustain them year-round.

“All I wish for this Christmas is for my children and grandchildren to have a better life in the future,” he said.

"My family and I had a difficult life in the past, with few resources to meet our necessities, but I am incredibly thankful to God for his favour on us.

“My children who are overseas paid for the construction of our new home, which replaced the tiny home we shared with my children and their kids.

“I hoped for a new home so that my grandchildren could live in a clean environment and now we are finally going to celebrate this Christmas in our new home."

Mr. Ah Heni thanked his children who are not living in Samoa for their assistance and support, noting their hard work and commitment to providing for their family.

"I would want to express my gratitude to my children who are employed abroad for their love and helping hands, which has enabled us to meet all of our Christmas needs," he said.

“We were able to buy some Christmas lights and toys for my grandchildren to celebrate this season as well."

Reminded of his humble beginnings, the 73-year-old advises everyone to be grateful for what they have.

“It is important for us to remember to express our appreciation for all of our blessings, as we ought to view each day as a precious gift," he said.

“You need to be grateful if you can spend this Christmas with your family and all of your loved ones. We have food, even if it's just some cooked bananas and coconut cream for Christmas dinner. Others live without anything.”

Mr. Ah Heni said he does not desire material things as those will not make him happy. He hopes to be able to see his grandchildren attain a good education and make a better life where they are employed in good jobs.

He said some people keep chasing after material things because they believe those things will make them happy but real happiness comes from being with family and he is proud that he is still with his.