Editor,
We live in a world where finding fault in others seems to be the favorite blood sport. It has long been the basis of political campaign strategy. It is the theme of much television programming across the world. It sells newspapers. Whenever we meet anyone, our first, almost unconscious reaction may be to look for imperfections
There is a desire to live better, to serve faithfully, to walk humbly, and to be more like the Tongans of the past. Having their spiritual eyesight and glimpsed the promises of eternity, they echo the words of the blind man to whom Jesus restored sight: 'One thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.'
Rejoice in the privilege which is yours. Your opportunity will not last forever. Too soon there will be only the memory of the great experience you are now having.
Let your voice be heard. I hope it will not be shrill voices, but I hope you shall speak with such conviction that those to whom you speak shall know of the strength of your feeling and the sincerity of your effort.
We have much reason to hope. Joy can be ours if we are willing to sacrifice all for our country we love (Tonga). Then we can look forward to the infinitely priceless possibility of overcoming all the challenges.
[Ko e 'Otua mo Tonga Ko Hoku Tofi'a ] sweet assurance . . . can guide you and me--in our time, in our day, in our lives. Of course, we will face fear, experience ridicule, and meet opposition. Let us have the courage to defy the consensus, the courage to stand for principle. Courage becomes a living and an attractive virtue when it is regarded not only as a willingness to die for our country, but also as a determination to live decently.
A moral coward is one who is afraid to do what he or she thinks is right because others will disapprove or laugh. Remember that all men and women have their fears, but those who face their fears with dignity have courage as well.
Kapau 'oku mo'oni e talanoa' kuo vahevahe mai tokua 'oku tau 'ofa mo fie tauhi e anga faka-fonua, 'oku totonu ke fakaha mai ki tu'a 'i he faka'apa'apa mo e melino ka 'oku 'ikai ko e tau lau, pe hange ko e lave 'a Mafi 'o Amerika Samoa, Tau Lau Bus 'i he takitaha tala 'ene mo'oni mo totonu he neongo ko e ki'i tokosi'i 'oku talanoa', manatu'i! ko e laui mano 'o kimautolu 'oku fanongo ki ho'omou talanoa'.
'Ofa atu
Joshua Nehasi
jnehasi [at] sbcglobal [dot] net
