Got to thinking about whanau ora. Tariana says that whanau ora (family wellbeing) requires a radical change of mindset about how we deliver services. She said it is not about "growing service provision or organisations" it is about families and their wellbeing.

Anyway, in thinking about this I came up with the following scenario. A Maori man aged 54 years presents with all the indicators of someone who has type 2 diabetes. He lost his job during the latest recession. He is a proud man used to providing for his family- this is the first time he has been out of work and he sees no hope of getting a job in his future. Age and health are against him. He suffers feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. But! good news his wife is working 30 hrs per week at $12.75 per hour a grand total of $383:00. They live in a 1950's State house with no insulation and an open fire. Their 16 year old grand daughter lives with them, her school work is deteriorating they suspect her boyfriend hits her and that he is "doing" drugs and are worried that she might follow.

Well Whaanau - Well Communities. Successful thriving families come in all shapes and sizes but there are some common characteristics that underpin ‘wellness’ in a whaanau.

Perspective and state of mind goes a long way. I have seen several families who place importance on material wealth and assets yet they are not happy as individuals or a family unit. Then I see families who have very little in terms of material wealth yet there is always kai on the table, the kids are loved and happy and every opportunity is a blessing.