I have just returned from Tonga. The Headmaster, Dr Mulford, and I had the privilege of travelling to Tupou College, our brother school, for four days to commemorate the induction of their new Principal the Rev Dr Alifeleti Atiola. This was a very warm (in both senses of the expression) and profound experience for us both.

Initially what strikes you at Tupou College is the contrast between the beautiful, green, tropical campus set on 500 acres of land and the very simple and Spartan buildings (apart from the amazing Chapel that stands central to all else). The food that feeds the 800 boys, all of whom are boarders, hangs on the trees everywhere on the campus – bananas, coconuts, mango and pawpaw. Little piglets scurry everywhere and together with the hens and the sheep, goats provide the protein. There are also the root crops of cassava, sweet potato, yam and taro.

The overwhelming conclusion though is that despite the very limited financial resources that our Tongan brothers (and sisters) have, you notice how deeply happy and content they are. Their lives are obviously enriched by their spiritual commitment to God and also by their very open and loving relationships with each other and their tight family bonds.

One cannot help reflect on the stark contrast with what so many experience here in Sydney. We have so much materially in comparison and we are so advanced technologically, but I do not see the level of contentment and deep happiness that I observed throughout Tonga and particularly amongst the Tupou College community.

The Headmaster and I came away with a renewed commitment to assist Tupou to refurbish and rebuild aspects of the school campus, but both of us were also impacted by the non-material “richness” that Tupou had. And as the Headmaster said himself, it is Newington who will benefit the most from our partnership with this amazing community of people.

I share these things with you so that you might, with me, take stock of what we have and reflect upon our focus and priorities in life. At the end of the day it is not our bank account, or our material possessions, that define us, nor do they bring us life-long happiness. The Tupou example is one to be cherished – the spiritual dimension is central and their love and commitment to one another flows from this. These things they value above all else, and it is these dimensions of life that add that special flavour to their lives.

As the Apostle Paul expressed it, “fill your minds with those things that are good and that deserve praise: things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honourable….and God who gives us peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4)

Rev David Williams
College Chaplain