I haven't been keeping up my xanga site, sorry, but I'm going to post a few things now. The following poem was written by my friend Mina early one morning after our first nite out drinking in New Zealand. Much of New Zealand was not only seeing the beauty of the South Island, but also leaving Samoa, readjusting into the "developed" world, and trying to make sense of all of the various emotions and experiences we were having. I both laughed and cried when Mina gave this to me to read. I hope you enjoy it!
The sun stays light until ten o'clock
The ocean is not just around the block
The bar is full of palagi
My heart is full of longing
They talk a lot
And all think they look so hot - but, their not.
Their dancing is funny
Kinda like a little bunny.
I guess we're not in Samoa anymore
This place is such a bore
No familiar faces
And all the shoes have laces
No guys kissing our cheek
No one asking where you been all week
The laughters not as loud
My mind kinda feels like one big cloud.
No one's sitting on my lap
And I've noticed there's something different about my clap
No one's looking at us
No kids are making a fuss
I don't stand out,
To be heard, I have to shout!
No tables stacked with Vailimas
Like the Lighthouse always was
This is not Samoa
I haven't seen a single moa.
Or any red Hibiscus Flowers
Haven't taken any cold showers
Haven't seen a coconut tree
I don't feel quite as free.
All the houses have walls
And the people strange mating calls
but, I still wear my i.e. proud
And I still laugh just as loud
I still think of you everyday
And am so gratefull you came my way.
Helped me slow down, Helped me feel
Shared with me many a meal.
Hold the Samoa way tight
For, it will be a guiding light.
Even if everyday, we don't talk,
Even if the same path we no longer walk
I hold our friendship dear,
In my heart it is always near. | 