The children of Melanesia

Abstract

Mosmeli was certainly one of the least interested in school. Her dress partly torn and stained from eating young green coconuts seemed to be the only one she had. Her hair as stringy as seaweed was never combed. She had a runny nose that ran ceaselessly like the Poha river. Mother died last June before she turned eight. Dad, an alcoholic, cared very little for her. She spent most of her time with 40-year-old Lena, the house girl. Lena, an active church member, would usually bring Mosmeli to Sunday School as often as possible. her outward appearance and behaviour reflected lack of attention at home. She certainly was one of those that were just hard to love. Her Sunday School teacher Kalolaen confirmed it. She says she loves all her Sunday School class the same, but deep down inside she wasn't completely truthful about Mother's day came and all the children in Sunday School brought presents for the teacher. Among the presents was one from Her gift was wrapped in Solomon Star newspaper. On the paper was scribbled in black charcoal the simple words For Kalolaen from Mosmeli. Kalolaen opened Mosmeli's present. Out fell a turtle shell bangle, and a small bottle of Topmarewa coconut oil. The children giggled over Mosmeli's gift. Kalolaen put on the bangle. She opened the coconut oil and rubbed some on her arms. Mosmeli leaned over quietly and whispered, Ms Kalolaen, Kalolaen. The bangle looks nice on you. You smell like mother too. She looked down on the floor and great big tears rolled down her cheeks. Kalolaen kept silent for a while, then she rose up slowly, stretched out her arms and hugged Mosmeli, thank you so much for the beautiful presents. She whispered. She also had great big tears in her eyes. I love you dear child. This time it was from deep down within. Kalolaen did finally learn to look deep beyond the outward appearance.