A HUSBAND'S prayers and fasting were the turning point of Losana Derenalagi's (pictured) life.
As a child, the Nawaka Village woman grew up in a protective environment where much attention and luxuries were lavished on her by an aunt.
Losana's guardian lived to provide for her niece and their relationship was close knit and filled with so much love.
"My aunty loved me so much she would cook, wash and do everything for me. So I grew up being spoilt by her. I thought that was how every child was brought up," she said.
Being the only child brought up by her aunty, Losana did not have to worry about sharing things with anyone and became accustomed to always having her way. "It wasn't until I got married that I realised I had a role to play and it wasn't about getting what I wanted. I realized it was my responsibility to do chores for my husband. It was difficult but I had to get used to it," she said.
Losana's husband, a teacher, had to be transferred to Yasawa. By then the couple had a son and Losana had been working for a while at the then Regent Hotel in Nadi.
"When my husband was transferred, I refused to give up my job to follow him and be a housewife. My husband and son left for Yasawa while I continued working," she said. She later received a letter from her husband, telling her that he was praying and fasting in the hope that God would make her realise her rightful place and duties.
"I read the letter but felt nothing. I live to be a witness to the power of God in my life. I was stubborn and refused to give up my job to serve my family but God humbled me and I finally came to realisation," she said.
What happened when she arrived at Teci Village in Yasawa is a memory that still makes Losana cringe.
"I found myself crying the first afternoon I arrived at the village and every afternoon after that," she said.
"Life in the village was a shocking experience. No taps filled with water. Instead I had to fetch water and wash in the river. Collecting firewood daily was a newly discovered chore amongst other things like looking for food. I'd sit and watch airplanes in the skies and cry when I thought about my aunty and the life I once had."
There came a day when the crying stopped and she finally settled into her new life.
"I am grateful that there is a God who hears and answers prayers. My husband took the best option and it changed my life. Today, I teach my children to be grateful for everything they have; small or big. When they complain, I am quick to remind them there are far more underprivileged children around the world," she said.
