Learning Journal #28

There has been news that the King Tupou VI has shortened the mourning period in Tonga from 90 days (3 months) to just a few days.  Some of the reasons I read online was because the new king did not want to continue to put a strain on the economy and add more debt.  I thought that was really neat that he did that because in the past, the royal mourning period has been known to last much longer than a few days.  

In an online opinion editorial, a reporter from New Zealand, who also attended the King's funeral in Tonga said this, "While no official reasons have been given, the word is the new King is deeply concerned about his Kingdom's dire economic situation and a full blown Tongan funeral with all the trimmings is something it just cannot afford."

Tonga's economy is heavily depended on remittances from people living overseas such as New Zealand, Australia and America.  Tourism also plays a big role in the economy.  During the lying in state, when the late King's body was brought into Tonga, many of the villagers donated thousands of portions of food, to show their respect and love to the king.  I thought that was so great, that the people of a country showed their support and pride for the King and being a Tongan.  I thought it was so interesting because I doubt this would ever happen here in America, if the President of America passed away.  Or at least people would show their respect in a different way.

This summer, there will be a lot of people who will be traveling to Tonga because of events that will taking place there.  A lot of people will be traveling to Tonga from America, New Zealand, and Australia to attend events such as high school alumni reunions and the Miss Heilala Pageant.  I think King Tupou VI looked ahead and saw the negative effects to the country and its economy if the mourning period had extended until the summer.  I'm really glad the King has shortened the mourning period for the country, and I think it shows his character, that he really does care for his people and the country's future!