Walking in the past

I returned to the land of my forefathers on the weekend, New Zealand. It was a very quick journey into the past, and the present. Each time I return there I find a very small part of me grows and appreciates the country even more. It is a little hard to describe, but I think that the connection I feel to my ancestors and to the values and traditions they espoused seem to deepen each time I am exposed to them.

This visit in particular, despite the fact I was there to cover a 40th wedding Anniversary of my aunty Ginny and uncle Ben, was a journey into understanding. As though I am more ready to learn and comprehend more about my heritage. It is a very subtle awareness that grows each time. I am starting to realise that the true bliss and joy in life comes from the littlest events and experiences we have or share. Like most things I have discovered, it is all in the timing. This weekend was right. I am going to visit there more often and capture more of my heritage and my love of most things Maori. I fell in love all over again with the skilled craftsmen and women who weave, carve and create beautiful art and history. I am in awe of what they do.
I am placing a few pictures of the art here together with a picture of my uncle Buddy and two of my other Aunties, they are so funny. Very kind and generous people.

I also wanted to put a picture here of King Tawhiao (pronounced Tar-ff-ee-ow) of whom I am but a humble descendant. He lived and moved about on the Marae (meeting and gathering place) I was at. In fact the two trees he planted are still there and are strong and great. The house you see used to be across the road and was a gift to the King for a meeting house, but as the Marae grew and moved across the road, it became somewhat redundant. In a wonderful move, the house was transported to the other side of the road where it now takes residence and pride of place, as though it was always meant to be there. I just loved the work you see. I also loved the fact that the Maori King had walked, talked and met within these walls. It was a simple and sweet feeling to vicariously try and absorb some of that history. I am honoured to be able to claim this as my heritage. I don't say that for any pride or aggrandizement, but out of a sense of belonging. I made the comment to some new friends who own the Taonga (the carved necklace pictured below) at the Marae, that no matter where my feet have walked, I feel a sense of home and connection to this place, though I have never lived there.
Back to work, already and back to the day to day realities but a part of me lives on in the desire to return again....soon. There is also a picture of me with brothers Lewis and Bruce.