Mother calls for unity and for everyone to work together

By Ilia L. Likou 29 January 2017, 12:00AM

Have the courage to follow your heart.

So says Tafaoata Lepule, 57-year-old mother and grandmother of six from Vaitele-Fou.

Tafaoata believes that in this life, everyone goes through challenges but it’s how they respond that matters.

For her, life is constantly a struggle. Money is always an issue.

“Personally, that’s not a lie,” Tafaoata told the Village Voice.

“The fact is we can only spend $10 for just one to two items then gone, it’s not that easy and we have to stay strong and have faith.”

With all the issues, Tafaoata said everyone needs to stand together and work together.

 “We all need to work together as one,” she said. 

“For me, I have to make sure that there’s a plate of food on the table to feed my grandchildren day and night.”

She is worried that the high cost of living could lead to serious sickness and crimes.

“I’m praying that the high cost of living does not lead to mental illness, depression and many other issues we are seeing in the world today,” she said.

“Parents can’t afford to put their children in school not only that, many youths have become violent and disobey their parents.”

“That means the number of crimes will increase.”

To address these issues, she believes everyone has a part to play.

“We want them to grow up healthy and be well educated, but not to struggle in life,” he said.

“The only hope is God. Remember when we pray and rely on God - miracles happen, mountains move, just let Him fight our battle.”

“He understands our daily struggles and He’s already made a way. Just believe and have faith.”

To support her family financially, Tafaoata runs a barbeque on the side of the road.

“I started this barbeque at the end of last year to help us out.”

“I’ve made really good money from it, so that’s why I’ve decided to continue on until today... but for Saturdays only.”

 “This is my contribution to my children especially my grandchildren.”

“Schools are back next week. To be honest I have many grandchildren and that’s why I’m doing this – I want to help them with their registrations at school, uniforms and much more.”

 “I don’t want to just sit around and do nothing. My children have all grown up, have their own (families), but that doesn’t stop me from always being around them all the time.”

The BBQ sales have picked up.

“Last Saturday, I collected $200 profit for just one day, and it really helps. We sell turkey tail, chicken, ham, sausages and other food items for $10 a plate.”

“The reason we are running this little barbeque stall is to support and help my family financially.”

 “I am very grateful to my children for always there for me when I need something, especially when sales are too low to deal with. And always work together.”

By Ilia L. Likou 29 January 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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