The Essence of Community

Volunteers at The Hawaii State Capitol (Hawai'i Senate)

Aloha, everyone!

Did you grow up in a city like mine where the local parks and community centers were filled with kids playing basketball or just hanging out eating hot cheetos for hours? If so, I am glad you can relate. If not, I am sorry that you missed out.

I have always admired communities, especially sincere communities. (Or at least what appeared to be sincere, because we all know that appearances can be a facade). The communities encompassing selflessness and affection grabbed my attention with their acts of kindness and warm smiles. But it was the moment when I first experienced the essence of unity, lōkahi, that my curiosity of what a true community is like got put to rest.

A community is a group of living beings that share commonalities such as interests, values, beliefs, identities, or place. The term community typically brings about positive connotations because of the feelings of happiness and closeness it invokes. As humans, we innately seek out connection.

In fact, humans are hardwired to connect to others, “Literally, when you are talking to someone, pathways in your brain light up to mirror the emotions and behaviors that this other person is conveying.” Us humans are social creatures, this is especially true during infancy and childhood due to the fact that social and emotional connections are necessary for development.

Our ancestors were conscious of the need for a strong community, but somehow along the way that belief got washed away. Western culture has indoctrinated their ideals of independence to everyone. Thankfully over the years, our understanding of the importance and benefits of community have resurfaced with great passion. Some benefits of community are: support, safety, connection, influence, inspiration, sharing, learning, and acceptance.

My heart goes out to all who have been impacted by the tragedies that occurred on the Hawaiian Island of Maui. During a time like this, with such devastation and destruction, community is absolutely necessary for survival. Kānaka Maoli, Native Hawaiians, have gracefully set a firm foundation of community. Their essence of lōkahi and aloha rise above all. We have witnessed Kānaka Maoli, Hawaiʻi residents, and the entire world come together to help Maui in any way possible. I believe that everyone has been so quick to be generous because of the example the Kānaka Maoli lead with. They persevere through all obstacles and keep their hearts set on what is important: the wellbeing of those around and those in need. Hawai'i and its natives embody the true spirit of genuine love and belongingness.

I am eternally grateful for the dreamlike energy of love and compassion the Hawaiian islands embody. There have been times where I have been in great need and the island swiftly sent help in the form of a person or an event. The islands have a way of sending aloha not to the mind, but to the depths of the soul.

Rainbow seen from Koko Head

Whomever and wherever your communities may be, express your gratitude and be a teamplayer. Let’s remember to honor and respect the culture and beliefs of Native Hawaiians. And also be on the lookout for ways to support now and for the years to come.

Gracias!