We must use our God-given talents to fulfil our purpose on earth. 

So if you’re a father, you must use your talents to the best of your ability to fulfil your role as a father. 

Not only does this commitment please God, but you’re also able to provide for your family because you utilise your talents. 

That was the opinion of Va’a Siaosi, a 58-year-old single father from the village of Samauga, Savai’i.

“Yes, we’re all struggling but we need to find a way, whatever God is given you this time, a talent, make good use of it.”

“Then everything will face into place.”

Va’a works as a grounds man at his aunty’s home at Vaitele.

“I quit my other job because my salary was very low and I couldn’t afford to look after and provide for my family,” Va’a said. 

“What I’m talking about is that in Samoa, when we make the wrong decision and because of the high cost of living that we’re facing now, our children will be suffer.” “That’s when I’ve decided to find another way to make sure that my family will never go hungry.” “That’s life now, if we take a look around the high cost of living and others problems is evident.”

“And there’s no doubt that many are suffering today because of the cost of living.” 

He believes every family in Samoa is struggling because of the high cost of living.

“My family is no exception but I thank God because sometimes we do our own, but he has the better answer for us,” Va’a said. 

 “I enjoy my job; the money that I earn is $150 per week.”

“No matter the sun every day, but what I earn always puts a smile on my face knowing that I’ll be able to help my family back in Savai’i.”

He also encourages those who look for a job to find another way to provide for their family.

“Focus on the solution,” Va’a said. 

“The thing is if we wait for the government to help us, it will take ages but what I’m doing now can also be a message to those who are struggling to provide for their family.”

Va’a added lazing around and complaining about this life was not the solution.

“Looking at the high cost of living, if you just sit around and do nothing about it, you’ll starve to death.”

Va’a said we must always find a solution and remember to pray to God for a solution to the problems we face today.