Tongan superhero in training

Superherointraining

For a tiny nation we have so much to be proud of. Pita Lolo carried our flag proudly at Rio Olympic Games in 2016 and this year we are cheering as Mate Maʻa Tonga play to victory #RLWC2017.

When I consider how a tiny nation continues to accomplish despite its size, I am reminded of these two quotes.

“Ko Tonga moʻunga ki he loto” – Tongan Proverb

The first is a proverb meaning Tonga’s strength-hold is its heart. Moʻunga means mountain and Tonga is not known for mountains yet we have a courageous spirit that when faced with a mountain and the challenges that it brings we do not shy away.

“We should not be defined by the smallness of our islands, but by the greatness of our oceans. We are the sea, we are the ocean. Oceania is us”. – Epeli Hauʻofa

The second is a quote by author Epeli Hauʻofa. We Tongans DO NOT define ourselves by the size of our small islands. Perhaps it has something to do with the fact that we have never been colonized, but we Tongans define ourselves more by the vastness of what was once the Tongan maritime empire.

For my children and the younger students that I teach the Tongan language to, I like to put things simply that they can understand and relate to. “You come from a line of warriors, You are a superhero in training!”

Your superpower is your language. Your superpower is your culture. “Ko Tonga moʻunga ki he loto”. Always remember who you are and the faith and prayers of your family and ancestors. Take the time to learn as much as you can of your culture and language. Embrace your superpower. Use it for good!

Tuʻa ʻofa ʻeiki atu Hema

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One thought on “Tongan superhero in training

  1. To who never created this gift of a website—- MALO ‘AUPITO 🙏🏾 … as a hafekasi born in Hawaii I cherish resources as such that teach me of a the ways of my ancestors and where I come from my family and ancestors came from… May You remained blessed to you and your Family!

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