The corrupt and dirty tactics, which led to the abrupt closure* of the 160-year-old News of the World newspaper in the United Kingdom, are also being used in Samoa.

The sensational claim was made Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, in Parliament on Friday. As the Minister responsible for the Media Council Bill 2014, he was responding to questions from the floor about why the Bill was necessary when he got stuck into Murdoch.

“The same thing done by Murdoch is also being done in Samoa in terms of collecting information,” Tuilaepa said, adding that media mogul Rupert Murdoch has become a “billionaire because of many false stories in his newspaper.”

The Prime Minister claimed that money is being used to collect information in Samoa. Tuilaepa did not give details about which media organisation he was referring to and on which occasion money is used to collect information.

But he said this is why a Code of Practise is extremely important for the Media - as well as a Council - to monitor standards and professional developments.

The Bill establishes the Journalists Association of Samoa (J.A.W.S) “to provide for the development, application and enforcement of a code of practice relating to the news media, and to promote and enhance professional journalism, and for related purposes.”

According to the Bill, the Media Council exists to “promote professional journalism and integrity in the news media, while observing the fundamental rights under Part II of the Constitution.”

“Mr. Speaker, this Bill might be new for us in Samoa but its not new to overseas countries like New Zealand and Australia who were pioneers in such developments. They too came up with guidelines to stop the abuse of media freedom by their media people,” he said.

Such abuse, Tuilaepa said, breeds the “high-minded mentality that the media can topple governments.

“The H.R.P.P understands this very well because this is the behaviour we’ve seen for 32 years since the H.R.P.P came into power. But such reporting has never been able to persuade the people of this country.”

According to Tuilaepa, Samoa must learn from what has happened in the past. He then referred to two international examples of poor media ethics.

The first was legal action taken by his government against TVNZ and journalist Barbara Dreaver** over a One News story which wrongly conveyed that Samoa was “awash with guns and drugs.”

In the end, the New Zealand Broadcasting Standards Authority fined TVNZ $5,000.

“This woman was fined by a huge amount,” Tuilaepa said. “It was proven that the story she wrote was a lie and their Council fined her.”

The second example was the News of the World in London.

“Mr. Speakers, it wasn’t so long ago that the News of the World was closed because of what had happened,” he said.

“The newspaper was 160 years old, owned by billionaire Murdoch, he was a billionaire because of many false stories that were done in his newspaper.

“It was closed because of dirty and corrupt ways his writers used to fraudulently collect information in relation to a young girl who was kidnapped and killed by terrorists.

“The writers also used corrupt ways to steal emails so they could write their sensational stories which were appealing to the eyes so people could buy more newspapers, and in the process making money from the life of this young girl.”

Tuilaepa conceded that the media indeed was a powerful tool.

But when the power it wields is abused, it has severe ramifications. One such example he pointed to was “character assassination.”

“Legally, ruining someone’s character through an incorrect story deliberately written with the knowledge that it is wrong, is worse than murder,” he said.

“Why? With murder, we will not see the dead person again because his body has disappeared but with character assassination, Mr. Speaker, the person will live with the shame until the day his Maker calls. Meantime, he is miserable together with his family, spouse, children and village.”

Prime Minister Tuilaepa said the Media Council Bill 2014 is a very important bill because it affects fundamental rights to express and disseminate information without being restricted.

He noted that there had been many valuable and deep insights expressed by Members of Parliament about the Bill. Such statements reflected on the notion that the media is a cornerstone of democracy “both as a matter public record as well as in its watchdog role.”

“I note that all statements in the House stressed the importance of the role of the media. This is not a secret.

“The only concern highlighted in all the statements was the need to report the truth and to give all sides affected an opportunity to respond so that stories are not one-sided.

One-sided stories, Tuilaepa said, cause trouble.

“This is not what the leader of this country wants,” he said, referring to himself. “We don’t want to incite trouble because of a journalist or a gossip-monger’s inability to prepare his work well.

“Consider how clear and simple the law is. The heart of it is to ensue stories are factual and balanced, that’s what the law is about.

“But to have it (Media Council Bill) twisted, twisted and twisted some more, it reflects the true colours (of the person).

“In other words, whoever opposes this law, he is the chief of speaking evil about other people, a trouble maker, likes to spread misleading information and a liar.

“We have all read Court rulings about incorrect reporting. What about the numerous apologies on the newspapers and other media outlets, reflecting their inefficiency?

“How many families have been embarrassed by stories that are unfounded?

How many churches, leaders of churches, Reverends, villages and families who have been embarrassed by the abuse and the reckless use of media freedom?”

The Media Council Bill is the answer, Tuilaepa argued.

“This why this law has been introduced, to put in place a guideline (so that people it covers) reach the standards required for the work of the media. That is the only way to improve the professional standards in journalism in Samoa, professionalism and integrity of the highest order.”

The Prime Minister also took the opportunity address claims about the about government interfering with the media’s work.

“These (claims) are extremely weak,” he said. “Firstly, who appoints the Membership of the Association? The answer is the Association of journalists. Secondly, who appoints the Council? It’s the Journalists Association.

“So it’s the media instructing their own members.”

Tuilaepa also defended the government’s move to bring J.A.W.S under the Bill.

“J.A.W.S and the Council have to go hand in hand because they work hand-in-hand to implement the law. The Association plays a very important role in operating the Council to strengthen the professionalism of the media.”

The role of the J.A.W.S late President, Uale Papali’i Taimalelagi was also explained.

“It was an appointment made by the Association,” Tuilaepa said. “I noted (from remarks in Parliament) that Uale was used as a front while a knife was hidden by arguing that Uale was a government person.

“Mr. Speaker, the government had no business in appointing Uale to the Presidency, it was done (by J.A.W.S) during their meetings.”

As for questions about the Council being funded by the government, Tuilaepa said these were irrelevant.

“How many times has the Journalists Association asked the government for financial assistance? These came to me directly and assistance was granted, especially when they hosted some major international meetings.

“This has never interfered with their freedom to say anything against me and Cabinet. It hasn’t stopped it. Why should this (Council) be different?”

Tuilaepa then had a go at the leader of the Opposition, Palusalue Fa’apo II.

“Somebody said that a lot of money is being used for the salary of the leader of the opposition and yet for all that he has only become worse.”

When Palusalue objected, the Speaker of Parliament, La’auli Leuatea Polata’ivao, declined.

Back of the floor, Tuilaepa said: “The goal of government’s assistance is to ensure this important Council doesn’t disappear quickly because of the lack of finances.”

Tuilaepa pointed out that the Media industry has also requested the financial assistance, which shows just how weak they are financially.

The Media Council Bill is now with the Select Parliamentary Committee for further scrutiny and for public submissions.

The Committee will have to report back to Parliament for the third and final reading. Parliament has been adjourned until 16 December.

The children Fagaloa Primary School will benefit from new dictionaries thanks to the Rotary Club of Apia and Samoa Stationery and Books.

Ten dictionaries at the total cost of $850 were presented to the school on Friday afternoon. American Volunteer Matthew Redman, represented Fagaloa.

“We want to thank you very much for your support,” he said. “These dictionaries will help the children in so many ways to improve their learning skills.”

The history behind the donation is admirable.

“Teaching at Fagaloa Primary School after a couple of months, the children always come and asked to use my dictionary nearly all the time,” said Mr. Redman.

“That’s how I started seeking help and I’m so grateful that I’m getting that help today. We are so blessed to receive these precious gift from S.S.A.B and Rotary. Thank you very much.”

President of Rotary; Tony Callaghan, said Rotary was pleased to be able to provide the children of Fagaloa – with assistance from S.S.A.B – materials to help with their learning.

“The donations of dictionaries are part of the Club’s ongoing programme to support schools and promote educational excellence in the local community.”

Fagaloa is a very remote area of Upolu. It is tucked away on south east of Upolu and many people in Samoa have never been there.

Mr. Redman said it’s a privilege to be able to teach there and welcomes any help others can offer.

An employee of the Land Transport Authority (L.T.A) was reminded about the seriousness of driving under the influence of alcohol.

The reminder came from District Court Judge, her honour Tafaoimalo Leilani Warren during the sentencing of Tautua Saulo, of Satapuala, last Friday.

“You work for L.T.A. so you know the dangers of driving while drinking,” she said to Saulo.

Information released in court revealed that Saulo had 91 micrograms of alcohol on his breath exceeding the legal limit of 40 micrograms.

His first offender status assisted Judge Warren in convicting him with a fine of $590 for the offence.

He was ordered to pay this amount at 4pm that day. His failure to do so would result with his spending 6 weeks in prison.

He also pleaded guilty to the offence at a very early stage of the case. This also assisted in his monetary fine sentence rather than being sent to prison.

A farewell reception for the delegates for the ‘Samoa Tour Group’ in the Emerging Pacific Leaders’ Dialogue (E.P.L.D.) 2014 was held at Sails Mulinu’u last Friday night.

The group of eleven delegates was led by Dr. Shaneel Chandra, of U.S.P. Fiji.

E.P.L.D. is run by the Pacific Leadership Foundation which is now chaired by Taulapapa Heather Latū.

The programme seeks to manage Pacific challenges collaboratively, positively and creatively by promoting a culture of leadership across the Pacific region aligned with democratic values and good governance, while developing participants’ leadership skills and broadening their horizons.

“Its end goal is to enhance communication, collaborative problem solving and decision-making amongst future regional leaders,” Taulapapa said.

“This very unique Pacific event was conceived in 2006 and then 2010 and this is its third phase programme.

“The programme also aids in building enduring relationships across communities, sectors, countries and territories by creating an active and influential Alumni network.”

This year, Leota Kosi Latu, Deputy Director General of S.P.R.E.P. was the conference chair with two of many inspirational speakers including Dame

Carole from Papua New Guinea and Rev. James Bhagwan.

The study tour group to Samoa met with His Highness, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, Attorney General and some of the Chief Executive Officers of ministries which include Education, Development Bank of Samoa, S.N.P.F., Central Bank and Health.

The study tour groups visit different Pacific region locations including Australia and New Zealand focusing on leadership and community development initiatives.

Australian High Commissioner to Samoa, Sue Langford confirmed that the Australian government’s contribution to the programme is A$600,000.

“I hope this dialogue has provided you with the opportunity to build regional collaboration, exchange experiences and ideas in areas of business, civil society and the public sector,” she said.

“This year’s dialogue ‘Navigating our Future Together’ aligns with Australia’s approach to promoting collaborative, positive and creative leadership in the Pacific.”

“Support for this dialogue is just one small part of Australia’s support of strengthening leadership in the Pacific Region.”

E.P.L.D 2014 is the third Pacific leadership development initiative staged for mid-career high calibre men and women under the auspices of Commonwealth Study Conferences (Australia) Inc. in partnership with Commonwealth Study

Conferences (New Zealand).

It was originally only offered to residents of the Commonwealth countries of the Pacific.

Think a minute…

One day in 1894, Guglielmo returned to his room on the third floor of his parents’ house. He had spent several months reading books and filling notebooks with detailed drawings and diagrams. Now it was time to work at bringing those drawings from paper into practical inventions to use in real life.

He got up early every morning and worked all day until late at night—to the point that his mother began to seriously worry about his health. He worked so long and hard every day, barely stopping to eat or sleep, that he continued losing weight.

Finally the day came when he announced to his family that he was ready to show them what he had been working tirelessly to build.

They climbed the stairs to his room on the third floor. Guglielmo pushed a button which rang a bell down on the first floor. His mother was amazed and proud of her son. But his father was not! He saw no value or use in being able to send a signal over such a short distance.

So Guglielmo kept on working.

Little by little he made changes in his invention to send a signal from one hill to the next, and then beyond the hill. Eventually, through his perspiration and perseverance, his invention was perfected.

Guglielmo Marconi became famous as the inventor of wireless telegraphy, which started the technology for the invention of radio. Marconi not only received the Nobel Prize in physics, but also a position in the Italian senate and many honorary degrees.

Someone said: “The way to get to the top is to get off your bottom.” That’s why “You gotta work it to win it.” You can accomplish nearly anything IF you commit your heart and life to it by combining your vision with hard work.

Your dream, plus your discipline and determination, will keep you working till you win. But there is just one person who can help you win at living the right, best dream for your life, and naturally that is your own Maker. If you will give Jesus your heart and life, He will give you the guidance and power to keep working each day to reach your potential and experience all the success He designed you to enjoy and use for others. Just think a minute…

"We just managed to hit a genre no one was doing. I'm not saying we're bad at what we do, we're good, but we were lucky."

It read: "Come home. Don't embarrass us. Give someone else a shot," recalls Pene Pati. On the cold - "coldest" - day in Wales, three Samoan opera students gripped glasses of whiskey and read the email with disbelief. Its author, one of their tutors at the University of Auckland, was supposedly a mentor. "He was Maori and close to us, because since the Maori and P.I.s were in fewer numbers we stuck together. It was a real shot in the heart," says Tai Pati.

"I saved it. As a reminder," says Moses Mackay. Two years later, the three opera singers, collectively known as Sol3 Mio (pronounced "sole-lay" like the Samoan word for male friend) handpicked for tuition at the exclusive Wales International Academy of the Voice, hold Masters with distinction and an album that last year outsold Lorde's in the New Zealand charts.

But that email - copied to a list of opera professionals, including Dame Kiri Te Kanawa - still stings.

To this trio, it summarises the challenges three working-class Samoan boys faced in entering the high-brow culture of opera.

"That's what kept us going," Pene says. "Either you break down or you keep fighting. He said we'd be an embarrassment to our people but I said we're going to still represent them, regardless of if we're an embarrassment or not."

The trio are jetlagged and bedraggled but full of energy; slightly defeated only because their cousin just beat them in a heated game of Foosball. After months of proofing their new book, working 14-hour days to film their DVD (out November 14) and performing in London's Albert Hall they must, their interviewer wonders, have plenty to say about being on the cusp of stardom.

Pene: "Damn economy seats."

Moses: "We had to sit sideways. The three of us, tucking one shoulder under here, the other under there. For 12 hours! The air hostesses knocked us every time. Most of them would laugh. We looked ridiculous."

A hot tub, showers and flying apartments are the accoutrements of the luxury planes of dreams but Sol3 Mio - two brothers and a cousin, who spent their childhood singing at rest homes run by the Patis' parents - are convinced they exist and when they become "famous" they will fly in one.

Aren't they famous already? "Sort of, in New Zealand. I guess," says Pene, who has just learned the group have been nominated for four Vodafone Music Awards. "We just managed to hit a genre no one was doing. I'm not saying we're bad at what we do, we're good, but we were lucky."

The three are chuffed an opera group is up for so many awards. Moses bemoans the state of pop music - "it's all about drinking in da club and getting shawties" - and Pene thinks youngsters will get sick of boring lyrics and the "dial-up internet sound".

Classical music is back in fashion and it's not just Sol3 Mio saying so. Music critic Paul Morley wrote in British newspaper The Observer last month that pop music belongs to the last century and classical is more relevant to the future: "[It] takes a new place in time, not old or defunct, but part of the current choice. It is as relevant as any music, now that music is one big gathering of sound perpetually streaming into the world."

Pene agrees: "Classical will make a definite return. People will listen to this art form that's been around for so long."

Not only are they changing the stereotype of opera, they're challenging the stereotype of who can get into the industry. For Pene and Tai, raised in South Auckland, stereotypes had a big role to play in motivation.

Growing up they had no money. There were times they went to school with so little for lunch their parents would tell them to drink tap water to fill them up. "It [opera] is my means of escape and getting away from the normal world," says

Pene. "The hardest thing in South Auckland is we've already been stereotyped from the get-go.

"That's one of the reasons I pursued opera. When we went to university, the three of us were stereotyped straight away. The teachers never gave us that equal chance. For me, that's when I thought ‘this has to stop' and started fighting the grind. People have this judged perception about our relaxed demeanour - don't mistake that for us having it easy."

But it's tough work chasing your dream, says Tai. He isn't just referring to strategically avoiding air conditioning to not dry out his voice, sleeping backstage because of exhaustion or the number of people who laughed at the whole idea of

Sol3 Mio.

"People don't understand the challenges of singing operatic music. You can't really bluff your way through opera."

As much as the three love their fans, they are sick of people thinking their voices are a party trick, that a trill can be whipped up at the snap of a finger.

"Even on the plane," says Pene. "‘You guys are opera singers? Sing the whole plane a song.' Next time I'm going to say I'm a gynaecologist."

Before the boys go on stage they huddle together and say a prayer of thanks.

"I can't imagine what it would be like to walk out by myself," says Moses. "Show after show, that would be horrible. I think that's why solo artists have some kind of entourage with them because it gets really overwhelming. You need somebody there who brings you back to reality because, after a while, things get hazy and you forget where you are."

This is why family is so important to the two brothers and cousin Moses. When they hear someone's voice breaking they rearrange the harmonies. When they fight they forget about it on stage and "it usually resolves itself by the end of the performance because it's hard to be mad when you're joking with the crowd", says Pene.

Later this year they are touring New Zealand with their families for a Christmas vineyard show, featuring Tai and Pene's girlfriends, who are also opera singers.

While all three are known for their humour ("It's part of our culture" explains Pene), Moses, the youngest at 24, is teased as the immature one.

It's a call with some substance. Over 90 minutes, when he thinks no one is watching, he makes shadow puppets against a projector - a duck, a bird, a fish. He also jokes about not wearing underwear on stage, claims to be best friends with

Lorde (he does actually live near her in Auckland's Devonport) and pretends to smoke through a rolled up pamphlet.

"As you can tell," says Pene, "this young man is single to mingle. Cruising for losing. Just putting it out there for the readers."

But Moses is full of wisdom for up and coming musicians.

"Many of our friends try to write music for the industry. They're chasing the wrong dream.

"We've seen it happen, unfortunately. People have a dream but since they're not getting that fame and initial success they change to try and be someone else. All of a sudden they become lost because they didn't stay true to themselves.

They're now in a game where they are a nobody because they tried to be somebody."

As for that email? "We could call the tutor up if we win at the V.M.A.s," suggests Pene.

"Maybe it was like reverse psychology," says Moses.

Sol3 Mio: Our story, with Donna Fleming, $38.99, out now, Penguin.

“We are not ants or leeches and we provide income for people. We need to work together because there won’t be a business or country or place for people to come to if this thing gets out of hand”

The chikungunya outbreak is not slowing down.

So claims a hotelier who approached the Samoa Observer to vent her frustrations after six of her staff members became sick with the virus in one week.

The hotelier, who asked for her name and that of her property to be withheld from publication, fearing repercussions on her business, said she became frustrated after repeated attempts to get the Ministry of Health to spray her property.

“We now have six confirmed cases with our staff. What does it take for them to help? When it becomes a nationwide epidemic?” she asked.

“We have been given the run around and we’ve been told a lot of lies. We are quite upset about it and this is why we are raising our concerns publically.”

The hotelier said she is normally not one to complain.

“But this is a very serious matter and I’m tired of being given the run around. It could become an epidemic not only affecting us but tourists who come to Samoa. If they don't do something about it now, we might regret this down the line when tourists refuse to come because there is an outbreak.”

So what happened when the family contacted the Ministry of Health?

“First we were told that as long as we were on the list, we would eventually receive a visit from M.O.H and our place would be sprayed.”

This never happened and the hotel contacted the Ministry again.

“This time they told us that only two families get their properties sprayed per day.”

Eventually, after more follow ups, they were told to purchase their own chemicals and do it themselves.

The hotel eventually bought a machine and chemical for $3,000 to control mosquitoes.

“But it is getting worse and we are on the dry side of the country,” she said. “It is not good – we are being treated like red headed step-children.”

The woman said her resort employs 50 staff members.

“That is 233 families we feed and we bring in $2million into the country. I pay taxes - $40,000 and I’m never behind or late and yet the Ministry of Health doesn’t want to do anything about this problem.

“We are not ants or leeches and we provide income for people. We need to work together because there won’t be a business or country or place for people to come to if this thing gets out of hand.”

The woman said the problem is that ministry workers “pass the buck over when they do not want to handle issues themselves.”

“That is no good – people need to take responsibility and call it through.”

The woman also said the Ministry must do a better job informing the public about such illnesses.

“The only thing that has come to mind as a result is that M.O.H does not take seriously this disease. And they don’t think that our people are as important as the high-profile officials whom they rolled out the red carpet for during S.I.D.S.”

“People have got to understand the importance of these things for their survival. Do we really need another problem here – and do you think people will want to come here if this is the way things are?

“It really is a principle about working together with people to help the country and educate the people.”

The Ministry of Health’s Director General, Leausa Dr. Take Naseri was asked for a comment in an email on Friday afternoon.

“Please allow me time to find the facts regarding this and then will respond to your queries accordingly in a timely manner,” he wrote.

A 57-year-old “law student” has pleaded for leniency in an attempt to finish his studies to become a lawyer.

Tomagoni Sapati appeared in the District Court last Friday, charged with drink driving.

The defendant had told the Court that he was studying law online at the University of the South Pacific. He also revealed he involved with the Catholic Theological College, Moamoa.

Hailing from Falefa, Sapati was charged over an incident that occurred on the road from the Faleolo Airport to Apia.

The complainant in the matter reported to Police that their vehicle was damaged as a result.

The defendant did not stop after he crashed into the vehicle the complainant was travelling in.

He was later hailed down and stopped by Police at Afega.

During the proceedings on Friday, he asked the Court for an opportunity to speak.

He then expressed “remorse” over the incident, saying that the matter has brought tremendous stress on his family.

Sapati pleaded for leniency and for the Court not to convict him because it would mar “his character” since he was studying law.

Questioned if there was any reconciliation between him and the complainant, he said there was no way of knowing anything about the complainant.

He also said he was unaware that the vehicle was damaged.

The Judge then informed him that for a discharge without conviction, he would have to provide proof to the court that he was indeed studying law.

He was also ordered to reconcile with the complainant.

He is set to reappear on Friday 7 November.

Think a minute…

There’s a story about a man and woman who had been married for over 60 years. They had shared and talked about almost everything. But the wife had kept a special box in her closet. She had asked her husband never to open it or even ask her about it.

Then one day, the old woman got very sick and the doctor said she would never recover. Her husband began to sort through all of his wife’s belongings. When he found the box, he brought it to his wife’s bedside. She agreed that it was finally time he knew what was in the box. Her husband opened it and found 2 little handkerchiefs and a stack of money totaling $25,000!

His wife explained: “When we were married, my grandmother told me that the secret of a happy marriage was to never disagree or argue. She told me that if I ever got angry with you I should just keep quiet and sew a handkerchief.” The old man was so touched and moved he had to hold back the tears. Only 2 handkerchiefs were in the box. He almost burst with joy and pride that in over 60 years she had only been angry with him 2 times! “Dear,” he said, “that explains the handkerchiefs, but what about all of this money? Where did it come from?” She answered: “Oh, that’s the money I made from selling all the other handkerchiefs.”

Well, that’s definitely an interesting way to keep peace in your marriage, and make $25,000 at the same time! But that husband probably wondered what he had done to make his wife angry so many times! He’d always thought they had a close marriage. But it wasn’t based on the truth. Obviously, they had not been completely honest with each other. Instead of sharing their real feelings, they had built a wall between them—a wall of handkerchiefs.

Think a Minute...

“Not a rite of passage but kinda like a transitioning into manhood I guess you could say?”

Psalm Wooching is a most unusual football player. This Washington linebacker shows up wearing flip flops, carrying a torch and a can of fuel.

He promptly ties a floral, Hawaiian wrap around his waist. When he takes off his shirt, he reveals arms full of Samoan-inspired tattoos. He lights the torch with a lighter. Then moves the flame...with his hands. Like a baton, he then spins the torch, lit now at both ends, around his back, over his head and through his legs. He admits he’s been burned.

Oh yeah hundreds of times. Y’know, now it’s kinda like, it’s just the natural thing.”

Psalm is a fire dancer. He still performs at luau’s on the Big Island in Hawaii where he grew up. “Not a rite of passage but kinda like a transitioning into manhood I guess you could say?” He first felt the rush when he was five years old. He learned from his dad. “Most people don’t realize that the fire roars back at you.”

He became one of the youngest fire dancers when he started performing at age 10. He wowed teammates during a training camp talent show.“And none of them really knew I knew how to do it. It’s kind of a scare for them. And they all come runnin’ after me after, man you gotta do this at my wedding!”

Keresoma, or “Soma” Leio comes from a tightly knit Samoan family.

Through high school, he lived in a small three-bedroom home in south Los Angeles with nine other members of his extended family. The living room couch was his bed.

As a student at Paramount High School, Leio was very involved in extracurriculars: he was a two-sport athlete, president of the school’s Pacific Islanders Club, played drums for his church band and was an avid Haka warrior dancer.

Applying to college was a tough process for Leio. His mother didn’t understand the need for college and didn’t want him leaving home. But he had his sights set on Harvard – until he realized his grades and test scores were too low for admission.

Still, that didn’t stop Leio from being the first in his family to attend college. With the help of counselors on applications, Leio enrolled in California State University, Long Beach after graduating from Paramount High in 2009. He dropped out after the first semester.

“I felt like I wasn’t ready to be there,” Leio said. “When I got to Cal State Long Beach, I really liked the classes, but for some reason my grades weren’t going the same way as I felt about the classes. Even math as my best subject, I wasn’t doing well in that class.”

He then enrolled in Long Beach City College the following semester, and has been there studying music since spring 2010. He took last semester off to work to pay off bills and take care of his family. He’s returning to Long Beach this fall with the hopes of transferring to the University of Hawaii next year.

RealClearEducation recently caught up with Leio to hear about how education has affected him since high school as he reflects on his experience as a first generation college student.

Why was college, and an education, so important to you?

For me it was very important because I needed to set an example for my nieces and little sister. At first she didn’t want to go to college but now, seeing that I’m trying to better my life and better educate myself and help my family, my little sister is now in college with me.

My little brother has been trying to go back to school, too. All four nieces want to go to college now. I wanted to be an example to my family and just to be more educated to learn and help other people.
It did change things for me, it helped me a lot. I learned things I didn’t know about in politics and just things going on in school. My nieces are all proud of me. They want to be a difference in the world now, I’m proud of that.

What was your biggest lesson or takeaway during the college application process?
It was definitely hard. Because I didn’t know anything about the process of applying, for me it was just getting help and information from the counselors and the people in school. They’ll help you out, they’ll help you choose your college, your major, so ask for help.

How did your college experience -- whether complete or incomplete -- shape your current outlook on life, society and economy?

I just wanted to be someone one day. College helped me think of music in a different way, music isn’t just about playing. Music can really help me, help others. It helped me realize that the words you put down on paper can help others feel and relate to you.

Looking back on the entire college application and college-going process, if you could do something over again, what would it be and why?

I would’ve stayed at Cal State Long Beach and gotten the help because I was definitely scared that I didn’t belong there. I was intimidated by the classes, the process. In high school, everything was pretty simple. I didn’t have to study too much – I still studied, but not as much as in college. When I got to Cal State Long Beach, I learned that you need to study, you need to take time out of your day to study, you can’t just fool around and play video games all day or hang around with friends. That was the one thing I learned.

The other thing was that I didn’t know the first thing about financial aid. I was struggling to figure out how to pay for college. My mom didn’t have that much money, we never saved up and stuff. That was the one big thing.

My advice is to talk to your counselor, because that’s one thing I didn’t do. Even talk to the teachers first. Taking advice and getting the help of counselors and teachers is important because sometimes they can really help out. And then do your research, go online and check it all out.

Are you where you want to be in life right now? Did the college application and college-going process get you here? What do you think you need to do to get where you want to be in five, 10 years?

For me personally I’m not where I want to be, because I feel like I could’ve been transferred to university or graduated from college by now. I have friends who have already graduated, and I think back and look at my past, and I just didn’t take the opportunity to push myself hard or ask for help when I needed it.

Family is one of the reasons -- I can’t talk to anyone in my family about certain situations because no one has gone to college. My mom sometimes still asks me if I’m at City College, mostly she just doesn’t understand where I’m at right now. I don’t blame her, for me it’s hard but I try to do it on my own and not seek the help, and that’s the one thing I need to stop doing -- stop doing things on my own and actually seek help from the counselors.

I want to be the first one to graduate in my family and do it all by myself. It’s a pride thing. But I just need to get over and get past the pride and get the help that I need to be where I want to be.I see myself in 5 years living in Hawaii, in the music industry, worshipping at church, and hopefully one day I’ll have a family in 10 years. In college, I can get a better education and a degree that can help me get where I want to be in the music industry – I think for me it’s about being a music teacher, and I like teaching music and I love music.I’m not going to force them, but I’m going to make sure my kids can go to college. When they go to college I’m not going to tell them what to do, but I’ll let them know that I’ve been through that, I tried doing it on my own and it didn’t work out the way I wanted it to be but I stuck it out and graduated and here I am.

It’s definitely all been worth it -- the struggle I’ve been going through, it’ll pay off at the end. As I look back, the one thing I didn’t do was give up. I hate giving up. I’d be out of school, probably married already, maybe have kids. But I’m still striving still pushing myself to move forward to one day graduate from college, be the first in my family. That’s one big step I want to achieve and show my family that we can all do it, not just me.

The threat of more teachers from Samoa making the trip across to American Samoa in search of better pay has been dismissed by Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi.

Speaking during Parliament’s Question and Answer session, the Prime Minister reassured that there is nothing to be alarmed about.

He also told the leader of the Opposition Party, Palusalue Faapo II, not to feel threatened by the first group of teachers who have already left Samoa.

The Prime Minister was responding to a question from the Tautua Samoa Party about whether the government is concerned about the exodus of teachers who have gone looking for better salaries and benefits.

Palusalue also asked for an update about the government’s plan to increase the salaries of teachers.

“Don’t feel threatened by them leaving for American Samoa,” Tuilaepa responded, adding that no one should try to stop them.

“It is the right of a person to decide to move if it makes them happy to leave for work and much higher wages. But those threats do not stop us from doing what needs to be done.”

According to Tuilaepa, what needs to be done is for the government’s Salary Tribunal to thoroughly review teachers’ wages, taking all factors into consideration. Any salary increase always has ramifications, the Prime Minister pointed out.

Referring back to history, the Prime Minister recalled problems with the 40 per cent increase for public servants in 2006, 2007 and 2008.

“The Ministry of Finance cannot just go ahead with recommendations just like that,” said Tuilaepa. “The government has to set it out in a way that is appropriate, avoiding confusion.”

Tuilaepa said up until now, some sections of the private sector are still unhappy about the 40 per cent increase. “It is why we have preparations to make everything clear.”

Tuilaepa said a paper is before Cabinet for consideration before a final decision is made. When that is likely to happen, he did not say.

He reminded Parliament that a dispute over wages led to the public servants’ strike in 1981.

“So we don’t just jump at anything,” said Tuilaepa. “When you make decisions, you have to be careful that they are not rushed.”

Concerns from the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture (M.E.S.C) were raised when the American Samoa Department of Education confirmed that 25 local teachers had been selected to teach in the territory.

A.S.D.O.E Director, Vaitinasa Dr. Salu Hunkin Finau said the 25 teachers were “carefully selected from over 100 applicants.”

A number of assets – including vehicles – especially acquired by the government to enable Samoa to host the Small Island Developing States (S.I.D.S) conference will be kept under the government’s watch.

This will be done with similar meetings in mind, such as the upcoming Tuna Commission, the Commonwealth Youth Games among others.

The plan was revealed by Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, in Parliament last week. He was speaking during the Question and Answer session.

Prime Minister Tuilaepa was asked about the government’s plan for vehicles and assets from S.I.D.S.

“The plan for buses, cars and other assets is after use, a committee will negotiate and submit a report on recommendations for it,” said the Prime Minister.

“Firstly there is a big conference coming up in December where between eight hundred to a thousand people will attend. So the chairs and other assets including some of the cars will be required to be used for that meeting.”

The Youth Commonwealth Games next year will also bring thousands to Samoa, with 54 countries taking Park. Tuilaepa said these meetings require the government to hold on to some of the assets.

According to Tuilaepa, some cars – including buses – will be released for public use. “At the moment there are about twenty applications given to the government from different organisations (asking for these assets) to be used for schools, hostels, societies like Red Cross, rugby clubs and tourism businesses.

“Some cars and buses can be released but the majority of them will remain under government.”

Prior to the S.I.D.S conference, Samoa received millions worth of assistance from her donor partners.

China for example donated close to $15million worth of equipment – including vehicles. Japan, New Zealand, Australia and the United States of

America also assisted. The equipment include buses, cars, tables, chairs, earphones, ICT electronic equipment, computers, air conditioners, printers, generators, fax machines, mobile phones, interpretation conference systems and more.

“Anger is a human emotion. But the key is “how do we handle that?” – Judge Tafaoimalo Leilani Warren

The Samoa Victim Support Group’s Advocacy programme for both men and women is quickly becoming a hit with the Family Court.

Yesterday, almost all defendants in the hearings before her Honour, Judge Tafaoimalo Leilani Warren, were referred to the programme.

In doing this, they were given an opportunity to develop their skills in controlling anger and bad temper.

The defendants were in Court for several charges including assault and uttering insulting words.

The victims were either family members or people who are closely related to the defendants.

During the hearings, Judge Tafaoimalo recommended S.V.S.G’s advocacy programme where men and women are given assistance in how to handle their anger.

It became apparent during the hearings that almost all cases of assault was a result of minor differences that could have easily been addressed in a more peaceful manner.

Instead, the defendants were unable to manage their anger, resulting with the incidents from which they were charged.

The majority of the defendants informed the Court that they have already resolved their disputes.

But Judge Tafaoimalo had other ideas, saying the Court could not just let them go without providing the assistance they needed.

She said it was important that they undertake the programme to ensure they will react differently the next time they are tempted.

“Anger is a human emotion,” she reminded.

But the key is “how do we handle that?”

With that, Judge Tafaoimalo said it would be better for the defendants to undertake the six-week programme with S.V.S.G.

The Court also noted that the Probation office also provides counselling of this sort.

Probation officer, Kristle Tofilau, who appeared in Court provided the Court with information about the success of almost all similar cases that have gone through their programme.

Last year, the Samoa Victim Support Group announced its first Men’s Advocacy Group to assist in building networks with men across the country to stop violence against women and children.

Coordinator of the group Papali’itele Tusimona Tinai believes that one of the important roles they will be playing is taking awareness programmes to villages and around the country and getting men to listen.

“Another vital role is that we will be act as an advisory group for other men that do commit violence against their wives and children to assist them in building a better family environment and to have them stop this abuse altogether.”

When asked whether he believes that there are women who are also violent against their spouses and children “yes but that is only 20 per cent compared to the 80 per cent of men that commit these acts”.

Papali’itele’s comments are in relation to the numbers of cases that have come through S.V.S.G. He understands that women are culprits too but stressed that their group is specifically focused on addressing the issue with men.

President of the organisation Lina Chang said as S.V.S.G progresses on its journey there is a lot of need for fathers to be on board. “I am happy that the advocacy group will be a voice for men so that their views on the matter can be heard.”

Mrs. Chang said this is a way forward for the organisation and a step closer to building awareness of the dangers on women and children as an impact of violence they suffer.

The holder of the one of the Tama Aiga titles, Mata’afa, has been called home.

Tui Atua Mata’afa Tupuola Lui passed away at the Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Hospital on Sunday.
He was 84.

When the Samoa Observer visited Amaile yesterday, his family and the village were in full swing, preparing for his farewell this weekend.

Speaking to the Samoa Observer, Mata’afa’s daughter, Peta Mata’afa Lui, said her father went peacefully.

“We are still very much in a state of shock and we are very sad about him leaving us,” she said. “We will miss him very much.”

Peta said her father’s insistence for his children, grand children and great grand children to be educated will never be forgotten.

“My father was a good man,” said Peta. “He worked extremely hard to support his children and family. “If there is one thing I will always remember about him is his encouragement and support so we can be educated.”

A builder by trade, Peta said Mata’afa Lui worked tirelessly to ensure their school fees were paid. She spoke about a man who loved his extended family, the village and everyone he came into contact with.

“My father was a carpenter and he built many churches and private homes,” she said.

“He served his family in many ways and at the same time was a father that worked to support his children.”

Mata’afa’s death comes a month short of his 85th birthday. He is survived by his wife, Amelia Mata’afa Tupuola Lui, children and grand children.

Mata’afa is one of royal family titles, referred to as the Tama Aiga, in Samoa. The holders of the other titles are the Head of State, His Highness Tui

Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, Member of the Council of Deputies, Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II while the Malietoa title, once occupied by the late

Malietoa Tanumafili II, remains vacant.

The title Mata’afa was bestowed upon Tupuola Lui on the 28th of May 2011 at Amaile.

The Tupuola title on the other hand was conferred on him in 1983. His family service will be held at Amaile, Aleipata before his body will be brought back to Mulinu’u where he will be laid to rest.

PR - Hot off the coals is Digicel’s newest and innovative SMS Game “Spin the Wheel”, announced as a product that’s sure to make the trending scene in the local mobile phone market.

Customers opt in to play by texting “SPIN” to 3456 and get a chance to win up to $5,000 tala worth of cash prizes. Each text costs 40 sene. There are five top spots to compete for each worth $1,000 tala. The more times players text in, the more chances they have to increase their ‘fortunes’ and get ahead of the competition.

Labeled as Samoa’s version of Wheel of Fortune, the game was a direct response to customer preferences, commented Digicel’s Head of Corporate Affairs, Leaupepe Talai Lene.

“It’s easy and fun to play because our customers are familiar with the concept,” he says.

Leaupepe refers to Digicel’s TXT2Spin show on TV1 every Monday night as the longest running and most popular game show in the country. He explains that customers can now play every day on their mobile phones at their own convenience.

“We anticipate a very positive response from our customers but ‘you have to ‘spin it to win it”, encouraged Leaupepe.

Customers can find out more information about all Digicel products and services by calling Customer Care on 123 or follow us at Digicel Samoa on Facebook.

“Rumours and panic are spreading faster than the virus. And this costs money. Ebola sparks nearly universal fear. Fear vastly amplifies social disruption and economic losses well beyond the outbreak zones. The World Bank estimates that 90 per cent of economic losses during any outbreak arise from the uncoordinated and irrational efforts of the public to avoid infection.” – Ian Smith, Executive Director of W.H.O Director General’s Office

The Western Pacific is “better prepared than ever” to cope if the Ebloa virus was to appear in the region.

So says the World Health Organisation (W.H.O).

Speaking at this month’s 65th Session of the W.H.O. Regional Committee for the Western Pacific in the Phillipeans, the Organisation’s Director for the Region, Dr. Shin Young-soo, reminded Member States that the Western Pacific region, which includes Samoa, has long been a hotspot for many emerging diseases.

He said, however, that the management of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (S.A.R.S.) - the first major disease outbreak of the 21st century - has made them stronger so that they are better prepared than ever for Ebola virus disease.

In fact, results from a recent survey of the Region’s members showed good preparedness to detect and respond to Ebola, and a regional emergency operations centre is on high alert.

“The risk for transmission here is low, but the consequences are high so we must be prepared,” Dr. Shin said.

“The Ebola crisis drives home a simple truth — investing in health security during so-called normal times is absolutely vital.” 



This is good news for Samoa, with Health Minister Tuitama Dr. Talalelei Tuitama noting in his speech that Health Ministries often struggle with limited resources.

Tuitama was speaking in Manila in his capacity as the Outgoing Chair of the Regional Committee.

“The inherent difficulties we face in running our health systems on a day-to-day basis can be quite overwhelming,” he said.

“We struggle with limited resources. We know about the policies and actions that will make a difference but we are all aware of the demands that come with our work in public health."

“When I first addressed the Regional Committee last year as Chair of the RCM, I spoke of how we are ‘keepers of health in our Region’.

“As leaders and ‘keepers of health’ we need to make the most of what we have, and increasingly, we are forced to make decisions that require sacrifice."

“Over the past year however, it has become clear that apart from doing more with less, we have to be courageous and be prepared for the unexpected.”

The Minister noted several outbreaks, which have affected the Pacific Region in recent times - Chikungunya, Zika and Dengue.

“(The) measles outbreak in the Solomon Islands is (also) a concern,” he said.

“The outbreak of M.E.R.S. in the Middle East and recently, Ebola in West Africa make us all feel a bit anxious."

“The interdependence of nations whether economic or ecological has a profound effect on our lives and our health.”

Tuitama said that ambivalence, indecisiveness and uncertainty do not have a place against the background of the urgent health problems confronting us today.

“Our people expect us to provide clear guidance on health,” said Tuitama.

“Therefore, when we look at what is in front of us we must choose to see not a glass half empty but a glass half full."

“Through solidarity and international collaboration, we can share our experiences, our expertise and our knowledge to take the most effective actions to make health better for all the people of this Region.”

Delivering the Keynote address on behalf of W.H.O Director General, Dr Margaret Chan, Executive Director of her Office Dr Ian Smith used the opportunity to speak solely on the Ebola crisis.

“In my long career in public health, which includes managing the H5N1 and SARS outbreaks in Hong Kong, and managing the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic at W.H.O., I have never before seen a health event attract such a high level of international media coverage, day after day after day,” Dr Smith Said. “I have never seen a health event strike such fear and terror, well beyond the affected countries."

“I have never seen a health event threaten the very survival of societies and governments in already very poor countries.”

“I have never seen an infectious disease contribute so strongly to potential state failure.”

Dr Smith said all of this was confirmed on September 18, when the United Nations (U.N) Security Council convened an unprecedented emergency session to address what has moved from a public health crisis to threaten international peace and security.

“I will not give you the latest figures for cases and deaths, as the number of new cases is now rising exponentially in the three hardest-hit countries, Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone,” he told the audience.

“But I will use the outbreak to show how some messages, some key arguments that W.H.O. has been making for decades, are now falling on receptive ears.”

“First, the outbreak spotlights the dangers of the world’s growing social and economic inequalities. The rich get the best care. The poor are left to die.”

“Second, rumours and panic are spreading faster than the virus. And this costs money.”

“Ebola sparks nearly universal fear. Fear vastly amplifies social disruption and economic losses well beyond the outbreak zones.”

“The World Bank estimates that 90 per cent of economic losses during any outbreak arise from the uncoordinated and irrational efforts of the public to avoid infection.”

A third argument Dr Smith highlighted, was when a deadly and dreaded virus hits the destitute and spirals out of control, the whole world is put at risk, especially now with societies more interconnected, interdependent and electronically wired together as never before.”

“Fourth, decades of neglect of fundamental health systems and services mean that a shock, like an extreme weather event in a changing climate, armed conflict, or a disease run wild, can bring a fragile country to its knees,” he said.

“In the simplest terms, this outbreak shows how one of the deadliest pathogens on earth can exploit any weakness in the health infrastructure, be it inadequate numbers of health care staff or the virtual absence of isolation wards and intensive care facilities throughout much of sub-Saharan Africa.”

“You cannot build these systems up during a crisis. Instead, they collapse.”

Ebola emerged nearly 40 years ago, which prompted Dr Smith to ask why are clinicians still empty-handed, with no vaccines and no cure?

“Because Ebola has been, historically, geographically confined to poor African nations,” he said.

“The Research and Development incentive is virtually non-existent.”

“A profit-driven industry does not invest in products for markets that cannot pay.”

“We have been trying to make this issue visible for many years.”

He did note that one of the few things W.H.O. is glad to see was that when presidents and prime ministers in non-affected countries make statements about Ebola. “They rightly attribute the outbreak’s unprecedented spread and severity to the ‘failure to put basic public health infrastructures in place’,” said Dr Smith.

At the Conference the Dr Shin noted that the W.H.O. would be reviewing the progress towards the implementation of the International Health Regulations (2005) core capacities, a topic of particular interest considering the current Ebola crisis.

“Over the past year, we have responded to many health security threats caused by emerging diseases — including outbreaks of dengue in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and the Pacific, and avian influenza in Cambodia and China,” he said

“We conducted risk assessments for H7N9, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus — also known as MERS-CoV — and most recently the Ebola virus.

“We continuously update these assessments, and assist Member States to meet the International Health Regulations, or IHR, core capacity requirements by the 2016 deadline.”

Meanwhile, the American Association for the Advancement of Science’s (A.A.A.S.). Science Insider reports that two Ebola vaccine candidates might be ready for testing in hard-hit West African countries in December, a month earlier than previously predicted.

And one vaccine manufacturer has said it may have millions of doses available by April, should studies prove that it’s safe and effective, a much more optimistic scenario than outlined until now.

“As more and more resources are mobilised for development of Ebola vaccines, the timeline is being compressed,” said Dr. Marie-Paule Kieny, an assistant director-general at the W.H.O. today at a press conference about a high-level meeting on vaccines that took place yesterday.

“Things are changing from week to week,” said Dr. Kieny, who also noted that several new donors have offered to help finance vaccine production and testing.

Two new Ebola cases, one in Mali and one in New York City, have added to the sense of urgency in containing the spread of the deadly virus.

But the best-case scenarios being discussed may be far too optimistic given the rapid spread of the Ebola virus, particularly in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea.

A special event was held in Apia on Monday night. The first Latin America and Spain Film Festival in Samoa opened at the Apollo Cinemas with an inauguration ceremony followed by the screening of the 2009 comedy film directed by Sebastián Silva of Chile, “La Nana” (The Maid).

Ambassador of Chile, Isauro Torres introduced the film, with additional remarks given by the Ambassador of Argentina, Fernando Escalona.
Commenting on the film festival, the Minister of Education, Sports and Culture, Magele Mauiliu Magele referred to the five-day movie extravaganza as an “opportunity to share and promote foreign language and culture, especially with our young people."

The festival is a non-profit cultural event dedicated to contemporary film productions that is currently in its 13th year in New Zealand. Eleven nations are participating in this inaugural event for Samoa: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Mexico, Spain, Uruguay and

Venezuela. A Facebook page has been created for people to learn more about the films and watch short trailers (https://www.facebook.com/lasffsamoa).

The entry-free Film Festival in Samoa is presented in collaboration with the National University of Samoa and organised by the Latin American and

Spanish Embassies in New Zealand and Australia, the Honorary Consulate of Chile in Samoa, and with support provided by the Ministry of Education,

Sports and Culture of the Government of Samoa and the Tiapapata Art Centre.

Eleven films feature a wide range of genres, topics and styles, immersing viewers in the languages, cultures and social aspects of Latin America and

Spain. Screenings will be held in Lecture Theatre D201 at the National University of Samoa from 28 October to 1 November.

Tini’s aim for the event is to run a PB of 1hr 10mins. If he does that he will be the new record holder in the distance for Samoa. The current record of 1:22:59 and it belongs to veteran runner Darren Young.  That was set in 2006 in the Oceania Championships here in Apia.

In among 10,000 runners at the start line of the ASB Auckland Marathon on Sunday morning will be Tini Lapaalii, of Vailoa Aleipata.

He is Samoa’s sole representative at the big event on Sunday.

He is competing in the Half Marathon, his specialised distance.

The start line for the iconic race is at Marine Parade in Devonport 15 minutes ferry ride from downtown Auckland.

To get to the finish line at Victoria Park in the city competitors will run on the Auckland Harbour Bridge to the finish.

It is expected that over 5,000 runners will compete in the Half Marathon distance.

Tini’s aim for the event is to run a PB of 1hr 10mins. If he does that he will be the new record holder in the distance for Samoa. The current record of

1:22:59 and it belongs to veteran runner Darren Young. That was set in 2006 in the Oceania Championships here in Apia.

But Tini is maybe a bit ambitious to aim for a 1hr 10min time. His best time this year is 1:25:00 which he ran at the Lalomanu Half Marathon in July (Samoa Events). A month earlier he ran 1hr 29mins in the US Veterans organised Samoa Marathon (Half) in Apia.

Tini’s ambitions however, is not without cause. It arises from the fact that running in the cooler weather in Auckland at this time of year is far more conducive to better times than in the heat in Samoa.

Even so, should he run a 1:10:00 time, Tini will achieve an outstanding result worthy of the new record. Getting to his desired time from his current PB will require super human effort on his part.

This is the second year Samoa International Events have facilitated local athletes travel and entry to the Auckland Marathon. Last year, six runners travelled there to compete with Tueffy Tuigamala setting a new marathon record (1:13:00) in the cooler weather in Auckland.

Tini’s trip to the Auckland event, and his first time in New Zealand was made possible with assistance by Samoa International Events (air fare), ASB Auckland Marathon (Entry) and Eveni Carruthers Sport (travel kit and running gear).

Think a minute…

There was a young man who moved from his home in Italy to live in America. He studied juggling and soon became famous all over the world. Later in his life, after years of success as a juggler and performer, he decided to return home to Italy and retire. He sold almost everything he owned and bought a big, expensive diamond. Then he boarded the ship for his home in Italy.

One day he was showing a boy on the ship how he could juggle several apples at one time. Soon a crowd of the passengers gathered around to watch. Then the old juggler got more and more carried away with himself, wanting to impress the crowd. He ran to his room and got his precious diamond. He showed it to the people and explained how the diamond represented his whole life’s work and savings.

Then, to the people’s shock and amazement, he started juggling the diamond! At first, he was careful; but each time he threw the diamond higher and higher. Finally, he told his audience that he would throw the diamond one last time so high that it would disappear for a few seconds. The people begged the old man not to do it, but he wouldn’t listen. So with the confidence of all his years of experience, the juggler threw the diamond so high into the air that it actually did disappear, before it started falling back down, shining and sparkling in the sunlight. Then, just as he was about to catch the diamond, a huge wave suddenly caused the ship to move and lurch forward, causing the juggler not to catch his diamond, which fell into the ocean and sunk, lost forever.

What a sad story. To risk and lose everything you own and have worked for all your life. Yet some of us are just like that juggler. We’re very confident in our own strengths and abilities. We want to be in control and live life our own way, even though our Maker has clearly shown us that the only way to really live successfully is His way. The only way to stay satisfied and safe is the way Jesus Christ showed us. Yet, we keep juggling with our own priceless life just one more day.

But we never know when our life will suddenly end—and we will have lost our eternal life and suffer forever. Friend, for your own sake and happiness, why not ask Jesus to forgive you for all your wrongs and living your own way? Then ask Him to give you His power so you can start changing to live His way every day of your life—before it’s too late. Just Think a Minute …