We are in the two-week school break and thus we took time last week to visit Apia. One of the highlights was our tour of the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum and hike to his grave site. The museum show cases the living quarters of the family. The famous Scottish author is famed for classic books such as Treasure Island and Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. He spent his final years in Samoa having found it the best location for his ill health. During his time in Samoa he earned a great respect among the people. Stevenson was involved in politics, economics, and daily life of Samoa. So beloved was he that when he died the Samoan people showed up in force to cut a swath through the jungle terrain to the top of the mountain where he had requested to be laid to rest. In this way he would be atop the mountain where his health had never allowed him to go. Since bodies had to be buried within 24 hours of death, cutting through the jungle at a fast rate and transporting his remains was a major feat. Robert Louis Stevenson was only 44 years old when he died. The hike was adventuresome and we enjoyed hiking with Elder & Sister Little. The view on top of the mountain is breathtaking. No wonder he chose the spot because the ocean view is picturesque. We did notice a special feeling on the grounds.
In addition, our responsibilities included transporting the 12-passenger missionary vans, tires, and books each way on the ferry. Just saying the van was like riding in a truck cab, clutch and all.
We also took the opportunity to attend an English session at the Apia temple and to spend time with other senior missionary friends. Elder & Sister Little made banana crepes topped with blueberries and red jam topping for our own celebration of the 4th of July. It was inspiring one evening to hear the Samoan strains of "My Country 'Tis of Thee" wafting from a nearby home.
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