W.C.T.U. MEMBERS HOLD MONTHLY MEETING

Hawke's Bay Herald-Tribune, Volume 81, Issue 32, 1 November 1937, Page 5

W.C.T.U. MEMBERS HOLD MONTHLY MEETING

The attendance of members was good at the monthly ineeting of the Women's Christian Temperance Union wlien Mrs. J. Wiison presided. After the opening devotions and routine business members stood in silent sympathy with Mrs. R. Sutherland in the loss of her mother, Mrs. Hercus, and with Mrs. H. Boshier in the loss of her husband. An apology was reeeived from Bishop F. Bennett who was to have been the speaker for the afternoon, Mr. A. isdale, who, at very short notice, had been asked to give the address on the subject of the Maori people was introduced by the chairman who explained that throughout all branclies of the W.C.T.U. in the ''month of October consideration was given to the work among th© Maori peop.e. Mr. Isdale, in a short, inferesting talk, spoke of the spirit which imbued the Maori race throughout the ages and said that though they had no literature, lct they were' possessed of a very great knowledge. This knowledge had enabled them to triumph over lil'e aud circumstances and to Tive happily and adjust themselves to their environment which, after all, was the greatest achievement in life. Speaking of their language, he said that tiiere was a tendency among the younger Maoris to lose their language by constant contact with the pakeha and through the education in the primary schools, but soiuo of the tribes knew the line original Maori language and were endeavouring to preserve it. In their contact with the pakeha the Maoris of the more remote pas displayed a quiet dignity, a line bearing and unspoiled spontaneity which was good to meet with. Any timo their feelings were hurt oy the pakeha tlie Maori usually just avoided that person lather than harbour any re-.ntmuif. 'l'hey were very easily hurt, as they were a very sensitivo , people, living aJinost entirely on their oinotions. Tliis being so, they readily accepted the good or bad, and were viry easily led. tipeaking of the early times of the race, the speaker stated tliat before th conung of ihe wliite niau and his l'oods the Maori had a perfecfcly baJanced ihet. There was an ahsenee of disease among them then and goitre and kmdred ailments were unknown. The (oastal tribes used to barter and trade Ihe sea foods with the inland tribes and so all henelitted. In conelusion Mr. Isdale said that the Maori race was one he had the greatest respect for and urged those present to take a deeper interest in them and so come to a better understanding of a very fine people." Several members spoke of their ex- | perinces in personal contact with dlf- ' ierent Maori people, and the speaker was accorded a very hearty vote of thanks. Mrs. J. Hudson and Miss I. Mitcheil, « ho were leaving tlie d,istriet were thanke^ for their faithful aervices and

some flowers accompanied by many good wishes were sent to each. Afternoon tea was served by the liostesses and the collection taken was in aid of the Maori work oi the Dominion W.C.T.U. Arrangepients were finalised for the jumble sale ; to be held next Saturday morning in the Wesley Hall to raise funds for the forthcoming convention, and members and i'riends were urged tp eollect articles fer sale. The meeting closed with the benediction.