While the nation was in a state of leisure, some individuals opted to maximise their time by working diligently to ensure their families had an ample supply of food.

One such person was Leusoali'i Ta'uai from the village of Leusoali'i.

This newspaper observed him diligently arranging agricultural produce at his roadside stall, situated just across from his family home.

The father of four shared with the newspaper that he chose not to take a break during the holidays due to the high demand from customers seeking to purchase taro, bananas, and vegetables for their visiting relatives this festive season.

The 44-year-old expressed his contentment and satisfaction in serving the community and earning an income during the holiday period.

"As the head of the family, I bear the responsibility of ensuring the well-being of my family and children," Mr. Ta'uai said. 

"I also earn enough for other stuff such as church contributions and other family obligations. With the high cost of living nowadays, we need to work hard."

He firmly holds the belief that diligence yields rewards and one can sustain their family by depending on their efforts.

"We can collectively acknowledge the high costs of living these days, but mere complaints without action won't change the situation. It's essential to take initiative, put in the effort, and address the challenges. 

"The principle holds that without exerting effort, one cannot expect to receive any

"Our plantation and vegetable garden supply the market, and we've been managing it for three years. Some families contribute their produce, specifically items like cabbages and pumpkins, for sale in our market since our vegetable garden may not always have a sufficient supply.

"We also offer homemade printed sarongs created by my children for sale at our market."

Mr. Ta'uai said he used to be an employee at the Yazaki EDS Samoa in Vaitele. 

"When the company was closed for business, I then worked at Sleepwell for some time.

"But because of the distance and the fact that I did not earn enough money for my family, I resigned and came home to start my own small business."

He then giggled and said he prefers and enjoys working in his small business. 

"I am my boss and I get to decide what time I start and what time I clock out."

In saying that, he then revealed that sales have been great since the week of Christmas. 

"Starting from the weekend before Christmas, we were earning approximately $2,000 tala a day. Even up until now, we've had so many customers, especially with a lot of people visiting our country this festive season."

Mr. Ta'uai has a simple message for the youth of Samoa as the nation looks to celebrate the new year. 

"Your future is in your own hands. If you don't work, you will not get anything. We have so many young people who are wasting away their youth by doing other things and getting into trouble instead of helping out their families. 

"We are blessed with great lands from God that we should utilise and make good use of. That's my only message to our people. 

"We should stop complaining and just sit around and not work hard for our families. When you work the land, it will not only provide for you and your family, but it will also generate income for other things and contribute to the economy of our country."

Mr. Ta'uai then concluded by wishing everyone an enjoyable 2024.