A new era has certainly started

By Mata'afa Keni Lesa 22 July 2017, 12:00AM

There is a time for everything. That much is undeniable about life. 

There is a time for the sun to rise and a time to set just as day and night will come no matter what. 

Indeed there is a time for new beginnings, a time to close an old chapter and there are seasons for changes. Whether we agree with some of the changes or not, it’s irrelevant. 

What’s important is to accept that changes are part and parcel of life. We just have to know our response and adapt where we can. We will not always agree on certain issues but that’s to be expected. It would not be normal if everyone were to agree on everything.  

What we do want to say is that all views matter. All these views contribute to the building blocks of a stronger Samoa, a nation that belongs to all of us.

Today in this country, a new chapter in the history of this proud nation has begun. It involves the changing of the guard in terms of the Head of State as we have all witnessed on Friday at Parliament’s complex.

As we go about our business today – with many of us heading to church for thanksgiving – let’s acknowledge God’s faithfulness in our lives. Let’s thank him for his tender mercies and blessings that are new every day. Let’s not forget that the key to more blessings is a heart full of thanksgiving and an attitude of gratitude. For what will we ever do without God’s tender mercies?

In Samoa today, we acknowledge with gratitude the beginning of a new era with His Highness Tuia’ana Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II taking the reign as the Head of State. In doing so, he and His Masiofo, Her Highness Fa’amausili Leinafo will lead this nation in the next five years – possibly more, God willing of course. It’s an exciting time, an anxious one too.

We also acknowledge the former Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi and his Masiofo, Her Highness Filifilia Tamasese for their services to Samoa for the past ten years. They have been wonderful role models for Samoa but there is absolutely no doubt that God has better plans for them.

Now on Friday during his first official speech, His Highness Tuimaleali’ifano, signaled the direction he will take with his first address. It was an address everyone had been waiting to hear.

It’s worth revisiting as he begins his tenure.

 “I thank the Government of Samoa, through the Honorable Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi the Speaker and Members of Parliament for appointing me to this prestigious position,” he said. 

“I am but a humble servant but your prayers and support and the leading of the Holy Spirit will give me the strength to fulfill the duties of the Head of State.” 

“Lau Afioga, Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi and Masiofo Filifilia I acknowledge and applaud your great service of 10 years, wherein you were Head of State.” 

“It will not be easy for me to continue where you have left and I will need your support.”

The Head of State also called on everyone to work together. 

“In the spirit of humility, I call upon the people of Samoa, the government, the clergy the traditional leaders, the business community, leaders, family and friends.” 

“Let us all work together for continued peace and betterment of Samoa. Samoa’s Head of State is truly a calling from our Lord, the God Almighty, upon whom Samoa is founded upon.” 

“And I am but an instrument, in his hands and I cannot do anything without him. Not unto us o Lord, not unto us but we give you the praise and the glory for your faithfulness and your grace.”

We say Amen to that. His Highness Tuimaleali’ifano is our new Head of State. He needs our and deserve our support. We extend a warm congratulation to His Highness and the Masiofo and we wish them the very best for their term in office.

May God bless them and may his mercies and love forever remain on Samoa.

Have a restful Sunday and God bless!

By Mata'afa Keni Lesa 22 July 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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