Culture, chickens and church

 

Getting to the end of my first weekend in Samoa, and it’s been a whirlwind of experiences and learnings. What have I learnt so far? So much, but here are a few highlights. 

I’ve learnt, and now experienced first hand what it’s like to live in a culture with such clearly defined roles, boundaries and expectations. I’m still getting used to being served food and drink on the daily, by my friend’s beautiful nieces - they move about so willingly and serve their elders with respect and kindness. I’ve felt right at home from the moment I walked in the door, and for this I’m truly grateful. I am however, having to get used to not being allowed to help - I’m hoping as I’m here longer these cultural lines will open up to allow me to take on some roles and responsibilities as a member of the household. 

At the centre of culture in Samoa is the church. Since I’ve been here, I’ve participated in evening prayers each day, been to church and visited the Catholic Church in Apia. The church is at the centre of all they do here, I’m enjoying being involved in all these things. These experiences are helping me to become more exposed to the language. Sete’s aiga is teaching me different Samoan words each day and I’m making a note of these in my diary so that I can start to gain a better understanding of the language. I want to be able to understand a lot more and be able to have a basic conversation in some capacity by the time I go home 

Chickens….. why is this a part of the blog today? What have the chickens taught me? Well firstly, they’ve taught me that I will NEVER need an alarm clock here. That’s the rooster’s job each morning. I’ve also seen their cheeky personalities, as the rooster ‘Chippie’ demands his rice straight from the hand or the bowl, rather than scattered on the ground. He was hand reared so he’s pretty spoilt hahaha. Maybe Mum will be allowed a few chickens when I get home after all - they’re super cool!

Anyway - just about to go and enjoy Sunday lunch - to’onai - and try not to get fat while I’m here. The food is SERIOUSLY good!

Back in a day or so after I’ve had a few days at the college - wish me luck!

Manuia le aso!!