BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Gregory Henry, a widower, is a father of four and a grandfather. He hails from the Western Province but currently resides at Art Gallery village in Honiara, which is located in Guadalcanal Province. In 2013, Gregory experienced a range of emotions when his beloved wife passed away.
Gregory reflected on the absence of support in his life, emphasizing that his late wife had been his constant source of help and encouragement. He expressed that her absence made him feel like he had lost everything.
Recalling his employment history, Gregory mentioned that he had worked at Levers Pacific plantation on Russell Island for three years from 1979 to 1983. Following this, he worked for a Chinese individual who owned and managed a bakery in Gizo Western province, and it was during this time that they got married.
Gregory, hailing from Ghatogae Island in Marovo Lagoon, didn’t cultivate his love for carving solely due to the loss of his late wife. His affinity for this art form dates back to his completion of grade 6, as he chose to provide for his six siblings through carving. “Carving was always a part of my life. I couldn’t forget her, so I channeled my emotions into my passion for carving. My focus is on crafting bowls, and it’s through this process that I find solace and tranquility. This is why I find myself here in Honiara,” explained Gregory.
Recalling the encouraging words of his departed wife, 50-year-old Gregory makes it a point to rise early every morning, grab his tools, and begin his day’s work.
“At times, I labor until 10 pm before retiring to bed. I consistently send money back to my grandsons and daughters. I like to think she’s watching over me and is content with the support I’m providing for our grandchildren,” shared Gregory.
“At times, I reminisced about her words. She often said to me that you create your own life and life doesn’t shape you. Her words of encouragement consistently give me the bravery to pursue my actions, and it is because of her words that I am where I am, doing what I’m doing, and experiencing the sense of ease that I believe she wanted me to have,’’ said Gregory.
