The year was 2021, and the stage was set for the gripping final of the Women's Rugby World Cup, held in New Zealand. The ultimate match played out on the hallowed grounds of New Zealand rugby, Eden Park, as the local heroes, the New Zealand team, faced off against England in a momentous clash.

The atmosphere was electric, the tension already palpable as your wife, Candace, made her way out onto the field. Unexpectedly, the expected outburst of cheers and applause that often greeted a national hero's arrival was conspicuously absent. Instead, an eery silence hung in the air, almost deafening in its intensity but holding an air of deep respect for the woman who had reigned as the standard-bearer and pinnacle of the sport for an unparalleled decade.

As the captain of the Black Ferns, leading the haka was an unparalleled honor, and particularly so for Candace, as this was her final time doing so. Standing in front of her teammates, the New Zealand crowd joined in, rising to their feet. They unleashed a cry, beat their feet on the ground, swayed their bodies, clapped their hands against their thighs and chests, and displayed their most fearsome expressions as they performed the haka together. For many, the haka was the most significant part of a rugby match, not only a way to amp themselves up, but also to intimidate the opposing team, and above all, to bond as a national team. With every stomp, shout, and gesture, the team and the crowd expressed their unity and determination to bring victory home for New Zealand.

As the haka reached its conclusion, Candace couldn't help but allow a slight smile to grace her face. Despite leaving her homeland behind to join you and possibly facing off against her current team in the future, she still felt the deep connection and pride that came with representing New Zealand on the field.

— Haere tatou...