How to deal with expectations

Dear Editor,

Re: Couple survives seawall robbery 

Interesting reading about the palagi being targets of the robbery in relation to money. 

It’s a perception that somehow, if you reside overseas you must be rich. Most people in Samoa don’t have any idea the hardships that Samoans overseas are dealing with. But all they think of is how to get something from you when you’re visiting. 

They automatically think you walk and sleep on cash.

My uncle acknowledged that when he went to visit his kids and families overseas. We have families all over the world. He witnessed it first hand the struggle that people go through overseas. 

They don’t live in fancy houses or drive fancy cars. They barely get by on a daily basis. Once he realized the hardships of his kids and families, he never expected anything. He understood and told everyone not to send money. His actions allowed our families overseas to visit Samoa freely without burdens.

Truth of the matter is, our family in Samoa are living better and freer than those oversea. 

My family appreciates and embraces what we have since those trips. Our families have visited for holidays/vacations and they no longer feel burdened  to ship a container full of goods to accommodate visits as expected.

The “automatic rich perception” from the village and families here in Samoa have long gone. We notified the village ahead of time that a so-called Welcome Committee is not required if any of our families from overseas are planning a visit. 

This action takes away the burden for the village and the traveling families. Their holidays/visits are more relaxing and memorable.

 

T. Leone

Samoa Observer

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