An Update

So, it seems that my concerns a few weeks ago are now concerning some of you back in the states. I didn't mean to concern you at home, I was just explaining what was going on. I spoke with my host parents about the situation in Fiji, and yes, the government is a bit unorthodox right now. There is no constitution, and the police kind of run the show. BUT you have to know that we are in Fiji. Host mom and dad explained to me that people here kind of laugh at the government situations. Think about it- there have been four coups in twenty years. Life is normal when the government takes a weird turn, because Fijians don't want their lives to change. Fijians are also pretty chill (we are indeed a pacific island). You get tired, you lay down on the floor and take a nap. So, when I walk down the street, shops are still open, people are still going to the movies, and the warf is still full of ships. It is hard to explain, but just know that life is alright.

In addition, I have this added level of security that others in the group do not have. My dad is retired from the Fijian army, and now works for an American security company as a guard in Iraq. His hands are the size of my host niece (who is four months old). Also, my dad is old friends (when he was in the army) with the military dictator. We borrowed his tent for a church function for my family's church, and I went to his house. This nice added level of security is nice just in case something would happen. SO, there should be no more lingering concerns of any of you at home. If you are concerned, you are welcome to call my phone here, though it might cost you a pretty penny. My email is wellman.austin@gmail.com and feel free to contact me if you want to chat.