Opinion: Don't let your past get in the way of a good future

Te Kei Merito. Photo/Ben Fraser

In this job I've heard lots of excuses why people have turned out the way they have.

While there are plenty of studies proving that coming from non-privileged homes is the start of a vicious cycle of behaviour, it's nice to know that's not always the case.

How often do people use their past to set the scene for their future?

So when someone comes along who is a right darling yet hasn't had a normal stable upbringing, it makes the wonderful person they are even more special.

Today we honour seven locals in our district who have made it on the Queen's Birthday Honours list.

While they are all clearly viewed as wonderful New Zealanders, there's one who stands out.

Te Kei O Te Waka Wilson Merito has become a Member of the Order of Merit (MNZM) for his services to Maori and conservation.

Like most others who are being acknowledged today, he is humbled, shocked and proud to be named on the honours list.

Mr Merito describes himself as having a difficult start to life, so much so he never completed primary school.

His mother was ill when he was born and couldn't look after him so he was fostered by a first cousin. But that foster mum died, so more extended family had to bring him up.

Joining the army was a turning point in his life and today he's a highly respected Ngati Awa and Ngati Rangataua kaumatua with a wealth of knowledge.

Not everyone who has had such a disjointed upbringing will go on to achieve what Mr Merito has, but it's heartwarming to see it is possible.

Congratulations to all on the list. I suspect it will be a controversial one, especially with the likes of former Prime Minister John Key being named on it.