The Boss didn’t quite get it right when we asked her to post about “aloha”; she kind of gave a quick, general overview. Nothing wrong with that, but we wanted to talk about from a more personal perspective. So, with that in mind, we’re taking over.
Aloha to me (JJ) is about compassion and patience, goodwill toward our fellow man/woman. Since I’ve arrived on Oahu, I’ve mellowed some—the Mainland tension has evaporated (for the most part) and I can view things, and people, with a less critical eye.
Two weeks after we’d arrived here, I’d taken The Bus to do some shopping. A local person smiled and said, “You must have just arrived. The Mainland stress is visible in your face.” I’ve never forgotten that. But you know what? She was right. I could feel it in my shoulders and back—that strain we carry from running around and/or doing too much. Things do get done without us having to propel ourselves all the time. Once I got home, I took a few breaths, calmed myself, and started approaching life—and Aloha—with a newfound respect.
I extend Aloha via volunteer work at the animal shelters and listening to those who have no one [else] to say it to. I attempt not to judge, though I admit that, on occasion, I do. One day, I plan to overcome this. But nothing happens overnight. So, as our Boss oft says: one baby step at a time.
Here’s one of my favorite “aloha” songs and one of my favorite singers: Iz (Israel Kamakawiwo’ole), may he rest in peace.
Aloha to me (Linda) means being at peace with yourself and others. Extend gratitude regularly and never take anything or anyone for granted. It should come freely and unselfishly—like me volunteering regularly to feed the homeless or taking elderly Mr. Koa’s poodle, Mango, for a walk when the kindly old gent’s feeling poorly. Aloha comes from Mrs. Pahanaa bringing us taro rolls and haupia pie, with a warming smile and heartfelt cheer. It’s a wondrous thing.
Here’s my favorite “aloha” song, which features several Hawaii’s top artists and 1,000 charter-school youth. It sends [happy] shivers up my spine whenever I hear it.
Aloha for me (Rey) is all about love—being a good friend and considerate person. I know I have my moments (Cousin Jilly’s said I can be a real locomotive at times—running through and over things and people), but I do mean well. Yeah, I need some work but, then, isn’t it said we’re all works in progress? He-he.
I extend Aloha whenever I can—like providing tips and guidance to Silvie, Mr. Kalani’s fourteen-year-old daughter who lovers her theater-arts classes and wants to be an actress or volunteering to save the endangered monk seal. I can’t save the world, but I can make a small difference.
My favorite “aloha” song is by Tia Carrere, a fellow actress with a pleasing voice. I like the soft, soothing sound; it’s calming. When I’m having a rough moment, this song will relax me in no time.
You don’t have to live in Hawaii to extend “Aloha Spirit”; you just have to be it, feel it, and do it.
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