CELEBRATING 60 years of marriage demonstrates the fine tapestry of love and commitment.
In essence, that is what Sakiusa Tubuna (Senior) and his wife Karalaini Koto Tubuna’s love epitomises.
The couple in their 80s celebrated their wedding anniversary in front of close family and friends at Albert Park last month.
Married in 1965, they reminisced on the good old days and how their love was a guiding light to understanding, trusting and respecting each other in the journey they shared.
A retired educator, Mr Tubuna who rose through the education ranks to become a director of the Fiji Centre said celebrating 60 years of marriage with the love of his life was a blessing from God.
Mr Tubuna, who hails from Suvavou, Rewa, was raised in Wailoku by his mum and her family while Mrs Tubuna is from Namuana Village in Kadavu with maternal links to Nukutubu, Rewa.
In his newly launched book “Journey into the Unknown through Faith”, Mr Tubuna briefly wrote about meeting his wife for the first time.
A teacher in Ratu Kadavulevu School at the time, he didn’t realise that by fortuitous chance, he would meet the love of his life.
It was during Patteson Day at Wailoku when the couple met.
The day was to commemorate the life of Anglican Church Bishop Patteson and served as a bazaar event for the Wailoku communit.
Having lived in RKS as a teacher, Mr Tubuna hastily left Lodoni early in the morning to arrive in the Capital City.
Excited to meet his relatives at the social event, Mr Tubuna bought himself a colourful bula shirt from Mohan’s store and headed straight to St John School in Wailoku.
When making his way to the bazaar, Mr Tubuna met a nurse aide, who wanted him to meet someone – a new nurse.
Without hesitation Mr Tubuna was introduced to staff Kara.
He said when they shook hands and locked eyes, his heart pounded – it was definitely love at first sight.
From that first encounter, the couple had a quick courtship before deciding to wed in 1965.
“I was 23 at the time and she was 24,” he said.
The couple were married in a church at Wailoku and family and friends were in huge attendance on their special day – witnessing what was to become a successful long marriage.
Soon after the couple welcomed their first son, Sakiusa Tubuna (Jnr), the current Assistant Minister for the Office of the Prime Minister.
He said throughout their marriage they weathered storms and challenges but stayed true to their vows as a couple.
“Marriage life back then came with its fair share of challenges. It was never an easy road to travel but we made sure we overcame those trials together.
“It was through our love that we managed to overcome challenges. Marriage is never smooth sailing.”
The couple has learned to maneuver through challenges by prioritising their time together, showing appreciation and affection, learning to forgive and just listening to each other.
One thing that helped strengthen their relationship was spending time together and just talking.
“We talk about almost everything together and we’re blessed to have been able to share that, just talking to each other and listening to what one has to say.”
The Tubunas have three sons and a daughter.
They have made a lot of sacrifices to provide the best for their children. .
Today, their children live successful lives raising their own families – an accomplishment attributed to the couple’s early sacrifices and commitment to their family.
At the ripe old age of 82 and 83, the couple enjoys each other’s daily company at their home in Tamavua.
Guests at the couple’s 60th wedding anniversary party at Albert Park. Picture: SUPPLIED
Sakiusa Tubuna (Senior) and his wife Karalaini Koto Tubuna in Armidale, Australia. Picture: SUPPLIED
Mr and Mrs Tubuna (sitting) at their 60th wedding anniversary. Picture: SUPPLIED
The couple with their eldest son, Sakiusa Tubuna (Jnr). Picture: SUPPLIED
