Living in a place where harmony exists because it is pono (Hawaiian word for righteousness), could turn out to be a blessing, or curse, or both. It all depends on who you ask. The warm feeling that most people get when they land in the Hawaiian Islands is, one of acceptance and love. Something about living 2,000 miles from the nearest state can get one to focus on things that really matter. In Hawaii there are three simple social norms that are observed. They all center around respect.
Be respectful:
By: When entering someone’s home...
What: Take off your shoes.
Why: It eliminates unwanted soil, bubble gum, etc. from the bottom of shoes being transferred to the floor.
Note: I should have done this as a personal practice sooner.
By: Wherever you happen to be...
What: Leave the people and/or location better than you found it.
Why: Because it ensures the people and/or location maintains or increases its value.
Note: I like it when I experience a clean space no matter where it may be.
By: When driving in traffic...
What: Blowing (or in this instance NOT blowing) your car horn.
Why: Because you never know what the person in front of you is going through.
Note: Do this in Hawaii and everyone will know that you are clearly not from around here. I wish everyone knew this, especially at a time when everyone seems so impatient.
Ok let us just assume that you already practice taking off your shoes when you enter someone’s home and you also practice leaving people and/or places better than you found them. Finding the right time to blow your car horn can be priceless primarily because it demonstrates restraint and control over self and contributes to overall respect.
There are always difficulties in understanding and navigating the accepted social norms (home, work environment, social environment, etc.) where the dynamics are everchanging. Here those changing dynamics come with the constant ebb and flow of multinational visitors to the islands. Never-the-less, the core of the Hawaiian community will always be one that encourages mutual respect for all people and it does not matter who you are or where you come from.
In the spirit of competition let’s try to outdo one another. Let’s use respect as our measuring stick. The best part is that we all win…how about that for a change?!
As always, if you enjoyed this blog, hit the like button. Also, please share on social media, with friends, etc. because we have to get the word out. Let all of the good people (wherever you are across America) communicate with one another and come back together.
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