The Untold Story of the

Reef Islands, Solomon Islands

These communities radiate love deep from within. You can feel it in the gentle hellos, the laughter from the children, and the "thank you" coconuts. They have nothing. Children play with kitchen knives, matchboxes, shells, and nuts. They make "jewelry" from palm leaves and stick flowers to their ears. Yet, they smile and laugh all day long.

Before this journey, I wondered why these people weren't trying to leave their home villages in pursuit of a "better" life. A life with more opportunity; more chances to "make something of themselves". But the more I listened to their stories and observed their surroundings. I started to understand what keeps them grounded.

These villagers know the community like no other. They know love like no other. They know what it means to commit.

I walked into this village as a stranger and left with flowers in my hair, a palm-leaf friendship bracelet around my wrist, and kids hugging me goodbye.

I wish I could find the words to explain how this community impacted my life, but it wouldn't do it justice.

These people taught me how to make a home wherever you go. They taught me how to be a kid again. But most importantly, they showed me what pure love looks like and that is something I'll take with me wherever I go.