The Samoan/Tongan community is in shock with the death of 11 members of their community in a house fire in Brisbane yesterday. The Samoan Fale (house) is open with no walls so families can gather together and enjoy each other's company. The graves of the departed are placed at the front of the house where loved ones remain a vital part of the household. Media are questioning why so many people would be in one house? I suggest it is because it's their custom. And how are these Queensland families coping? As they know best. - coming together in prayer, singing and comforting each other at this sad, sad time while they wait for the location and removal of all 11 from the ashes.
It's very sad new I heard about this Logan family who have have lost so many loved ones - what a tragedy! good that the whole community is rallying around them.
