Celebrating the best among region’s kaumatua

Clive Bibby

Opinion

My wife and I were privileged to be part of a function that demonstrated why we as a nation need to focus on the things we have in common, rather than the things that drive us apart.

Why do we have to put up with a constant barrage of elitist separatism when our multicultured heritage suggests that each one of us has something to contribute towards a common goal?

The memorable occasion I am talking about was the Anglican Kaumatua Ball held on Saturday evening at Te Poho-o-Rawiri Marae in Gisborne.

This was a grand occasion where the pakeke folk of our vintage were being recognised for their contribution to communities throughout Te Tairawhiti.

There were many aspects of this gathering that made it special but for me, the most striking was the dignified way Maoridom treat their elderly citizens, when the rest of society are quick to dismiss their older people as no longer relevant.

Watching the awarding of commemorative medals to those who had spent a lifetime of often unrecognised service was a humbling experience — as much as anything, because it showed just how good Maori in particular are at taking care of those who are reaching their twilight years.

It is why you rarely see or hear about homeless or destitute pakeke Maori.

And that is because these people remain part of their respective families and communities until they pass away.

The younger generations, who have taken over the reins as leaders in society, see it as a responsibility they inherit which is part of being who they are.

But the best example of what this function was all about was the deliberate acknowledgement of those who had made and, in many cases continue to make, selfless contributions with no monetary reward for their labours.

Given it was a church-organised celebration, readers will forgive me if l use one of my favourite parables from the Bible when describing those contributions made in the context of the modern age.

It is the story of the widow’s mite.

This analogy was used by Christ when contrasting the “look at me, holier than thou” activities we have witnessed so often by those who want to divide us, during the recent opening of the new Parliament, with the decent folk they claim to represent.

Jesus was referring to the Pharisees — the community leaders of his day, when he compared the contribution of the widow when it came time to make her offering.

The Pharisees who had amassed fortunes, mainly off the backs of poor workers, made a show of their large contribution — which in monetary terms was quite a bit, but in reality only a fraction of their real worth.

In contrast, the widow’s mite was all she had to give!

I believe the kaumatua ball was Maoridom’s way of saying thank you to those often unheralded members of society who had also given their all.

My thanks go to all the organisers and caregivers who supported the stars of the show.

It was an example of living that is unfortunately too often in so short supply these days.

Well done Tangata Whenua. We owe you one!