My Ukulele

The storm passed over, but I was still sad.

I lost the best thing I ever had.

My best thing-everyone always encouraged me to play.

Oh no, where is it? I searched high and low, night and day.

Then one day, Dad sadly walks through the door.

Holding my precious ukulele, all broken into four.

He hugged and kissed me, and said, “I’ve felt sad too.”

He wiped away my tears and said, “I’ll take care of you”.

I watched while Dad mended with wood, string and glue.

Oh I could not wait! My world is no longer blue.

My ukulele is fixed. My world is now fine.

Thank you Dad. I’m so glad you are mine.

This Book is part of a set of materials for children and caregivers in Fiji to help meet the psychosocial needs and caregivers after Cyclone Winston.

This set of materials was produced during a pioneering workshop in Suva during 4-9 April, 2016. A unique group of participants came together to produce a gift to the children of Fiji. People from the Ministries of Education, Health, Social Welfare and Information, together with participants from a range of NGOs, the University of the South Pacifi?c and some of the most creative talent in the country developed materials to help children heal and to support their courage and resiliency.

Children’s di?fficult emotions during there diffi?cult times are normal and they should be acknowledged and accepted. These emotions come after a disaster but they are part of everyday life as well. Our hope is that these materials will help them feel that they are not alone, that there are many helpers and caregivers to support them. This include children and adults with disabilities and those from marginalized groups who have a role to play in contributing to positive change in their families and communities.

We hope that you will use these materials in many creative ways. In addition, we know that you will come up with your own excellent ideas to help and support children during and after a natural disaster and in everyday life. We welcome your feedback on the materials and your suggestions for improvements and additional needs of Fijian children.

INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANT: Barbara Kolucki, GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Hugh Baleinagasau, Joseph Hing, STORY AND CONTRIBUTION: Irene Manarae, Melita Cook, Inise Tawaketini, Alice Pickering, Meli Serevi, Makelesi Lomani, Kelesi Whippy, Claudette Wilson, FACILITATOR: Joseph Hing, ILLUSTRATORS: Tui Ledua, Sakiusa Volavola