In the late 1960’s, my father left the familiarity of his home in Tonga in pursuit of quality education and opportunities for his family. Ultimately, it was the United States Army, religion and marriage to an American citizen that became the avenue for my family’s migration.

My father, Ahofono, arrived in New Zealand where he was hired to load containers. The repetitive motion of lifting and loading 40 pounds bounded by wire often left his hands swollen and bleeding.  The work was very difficult but the thought of his wife and children kept him motivated each day.  His earnings were used to fund the migration of two older siblings to New Zealand.  Remittances were sent back to Tonga for the support of their families.  At the end of his work visa, my father returned to Tonga.

Upon arriving home, his brother joined the United States Army in American Samoa, which allowed him to migrate to Hawaii.  There he met his American wife, Terri, whose name I bear. My father was able to join his brother in Hawaii thanks to an immigration act allowing the migration of family members. 

He worked as a freelance landscaper and rockwall builder during the day and washed dishes at a local restaurant at night. Soon his wife and children joined him. My parents worked hard and made sacrifices which eventually allowed them to purchase a home for their 10 children.  The experiences within these walls have influenced much of my identity today.

Ahofono was involved in the migration of 300-500 people to Hawaii, many of whom passed through our home.  He loved people and exhausted himself helping others.  I never fully understood why he never demanded anything in return, until I experienced the joy of service myself.  No money can compensate for the feeling I got from selflessly helping another. 

Education was important to him, and he did the best he could to encourage and support us in school.  We held family study where we took turns reading from the scriptures.  As his family expanded and grandchildren came, he was actively involved in their schoolwork and activities. 

My father was a diligent worker. The years of hard labor took a toll on his mortal body, but he never missed a day of work.  He had positive relationships with his employers as well as those that worked for him. His good name has made my family’s landscaping company one of the most successful on the Big island of Hawaii.

It has been five years since my father’s death, but the lessons I’ve learned from him are engraved upon the stony tablets of my heart.  Education and life experiences have not been easy, but I fall back on the teachings of my parents.  Many of the courses in my study of biology, have required the application of dedication, hard work and discipline.  I am a first generation college graduate with a desire to be better.   My driving force is my family, especially my 33 nieces and nephews.  They are 33 reasons why I need to try harder. The hope of making a difference not only in my life but in the lives of others is why I am here today.  Together with the support of my family I am determined to work hard and succeed. Yes, I proudly declare that, I am a product of Ahofono’s migration.