This post features student writing.

Like usual, we continued digging holes for the fence posts and filling them with cement. Unfortunately, several people were feeling tired so we made sure to take plenty of breaks just to be safe. Work started winding down a little after 10 so we decided to go down to the beach to get some sand for the cement. On the way to the beach, one of the villagers pointed out their village cemetery. They explained their tradition of showing respect by lowering their voices. I found it extremely touching to see how the community continues to show respect even after death and how everyone was buried together as one big family in the village. At the beach, we shoveled the sand into bags and piled them up for the truck to transport later in the day. While we were there, we took the opportunity to explore briefly. Something that really surprised me was that instead of sand, the beach was entirely made up of shells and dead coral. It was truly so breathtakingly beautiful. I took some videos to show my family at home, but they couldn’t quite capture the true effect. Also, I found my first pieces of sea glass and spent the rest of the time there searching for more. I ended the excursion with a large handful of brightly colored glass. I had SO much fun and can now confirm that what everyone says is true: Fijian beaches are indeed the most beautiful. Also, I think I might take a little bit of the “Fiji Time” mentality back home since today showed me that some of the most exciting and impactful experiences are found on a whim.

— Hannah L.

The group had been talking about going to the beach for a while so Andrew and Gaby surprised us with a spontaneous trip after lunch. We even had Captain Mo, a friend of ours from Navakawau, join us. It was a long hike and on the way we saw the cemetery, overseeing the ocean. Everyone lowers their voice when passing as a sign of respect. When we finally made it down the hill, the view of the ocean and trees were breathtaking. I have seen pictures and videos of Fiji’s stunning waters, but nothing compares to seeing it with your own eyes. When we found a spot, a portion of the group went to swim in the ocean as the other portion searched for seashells and sea glass. It was a great conclusion to our first week in Navakawau.

— Diana R.