Samoan Sacrifice

While in Satupitaea, the family we were visiting wanted to prepare a traditional Samoan feast for us.  Richard, my father-in-law, wanted us to be able to see the process of preparing the feast, so we got up early Sunday morning to go watch.  When we got there, they were in the process of trying to coax in a pig, but having us there seemed to complicate the process.  The pigs, who had been fed the night before didn't seem eager to come in.  We could see large pigs out in the trees, but they were keeping their distance.

While we were watching this process there was a cute little pure white pig that was running around the yard, much like my dog does at home-secure in it's place in the family.  He was not at all shy.  Preparations for the meal were beginning.  Taro root was cleaned, young taro leaves were rolled in the most impressive way to hold coconut milk for polosomey (my very favorite Samoan food).

Finally, it was growing time to get ready for church. Luafitu walked through the yard with his gun and a single 22 shell wrapped in paper.  He loaded the gun and suddenly I could see what was about to happen.  He called the little white pig and with a little hesitation, he shot him.  Then he gently picked up the pig, and held him while he died.  I didn't know how to feel about what was going on.  I could tell something significant was happening.  Something was wrenched out of my heart!  Time stood still and the moment became etched in my mind forever.  The pig was carefully prepared and placed with the polosomey and taro root on the hot lava rock.  Everything was covered with layers and layers of taro leaves.

I later learned from his daughter, that he had raised this pig from a baby and it was special to him.  I have pondered the significance of this event.  Bridgette, my sister in law spoke with Lupe, Luafitu's sister in law.  She asked if  Luafitu was sad about having to kill his pig.  Lupe said he was a little sad, but it was ok because it was a good sacrifice for all that we have done for them.

I cannot think of this little white pig, without thinking about another sacrifice.  That of a perfect Savior for our sins and a Heavenly Father who loved us enough to make that sacrifice.  With all that he has done for us, what I am willing to give back?  What sacrifices can I make in my life that would be meaningful?  My time, my resources, my obedience, my heart?  This moment taught me that to be a true sacrifice, it needs to be a bit hard.  Things that are easy to give, hold little value.  The hard is made easier by the love and gratitude we feel for all our Savior has done.

As I watched the indecision in Luafitu fade away into decision and the sacrifice performed,  I felt I was watching a lifetime in fast forward.  All of us need to allow the indecision and desire to serve work in us until the moment of decision comes to bring us to be disciples of Christ.

Thank you Luafitu for teaching me more about love and sacrifice.