Stories From Kiribati

When I was young I thought of education

Peers at school doing their study

I wished to go abroad

As a teenager I experienced the new world

Differ from my culture and people

The wisdom from western education

Changed my style and living

Far beyond as I familiar with

Today it seems as thousands ahead

Like tourists when visited and left

My beloved island.

When out noble old men shared

Their wise decision seated at

‘Te Bouriki’ of Tabontebike maneaba

Where my father and grandfather

Built for my people

I could feel the anxiety within you

As you always part of it

Because you are tuned in my heart.

I think of coming back someday

To smell the scent of old perfume

'Te Bonubonu' my forefathers oil

That waved me from afar

That clasped me to Daddy's bosom

I feel the sacrifice you offered

When Mom's wrinkle hands

Comforted me from day to day

To where I stand for

Today and Tomorrow.

(Written by: Mrs Karibwannang - School Teacher)