Tsunami, Week After

I wouldn't say things are normalizing here because hosting hundreds of aid workers, managing without our only city, and living without power on half the island are not really "normal" for us. A definite change has taken place on the island. But schools are back in session after being out last week. And people are shopping, working, and living like normal.

We are definitely skittish here. Did you hear about the earthquake off of Vanuatu Islands today? I did. At McDonalds. From the janitor lady. News like that travels very fast. After that every person I saw was on the phone. I got in my car and joined the sudden traffic, all of us tuned into the weather service alert on the radio. On my way I noticed school kids in trucks, so I picked up Ella from school. She was tearful, worried about another tsunami, and felt the panic in the air. I assured her this earthquake was too far away to do damage, and that we had a few hours notice until it came, so everyone would be fine. But I also felt emotional. It's been a rough week for everyone.

(You can look up SamoaNews.com for updates and specifics.)

My friend Melanie posted a fitting description of the state of the island.

I agree that the Samoans are a resilient and happy people. I like to think their simple faith helps them move forward through difficulty. E muamua le Atua. God first.

This is the Browns' picture taken Day Of Tsunami. I love it.
I can just imagine:
"Hey, guys, you know there was a tsunami here this morning. There are cars slammed into second-story windows. Massive flooding, dangerous chemicals, stuff like that..."

"Yeah, that's cool. But check out this EEL!! It's AWE-some!"