Source: apec.org
“The world will turn to Hawai`i as they search for world peace because Hawai`i has the key…and that key is Aloha!” ~ Auntie Pilahi Paki
Value of the Month – November
Aloha: To extend an unconditional hand of friendship to a stranger as an intimate gesture of welcome.
The Aloha Spirit is the coordination of mind and heart within each person. It brings each person to the self. Each person must think and emote good feelings to others. In the contemplation and presence of the life force, “Aloha,” the following unuhi laula loa (free translation) may be used:
Akahai, meaning kindness, (grace) to be expressed with tenderness;
Lokahi, meaning unity, (unbroken) to be expressed with harmony;
`Olu`olu, meaning agreeable, (gentle) to be expressed with pleasantness;
Ha`aha`a, meaning humility, (empty) to be expressed with modesty;
Ahonui, meaning patience, (waiting for the moment) to be expressed with perseverance.
These are traits of character that express the charm, warmth and sincerity of Hawai`i’s people. It was the working philosophy of native Hawaiians and was presented as a gift to the people of Hawai`i.
Aloha is more than a word of greeting or farewell or a salutation.
Aloha means mutual regard and affection and extends warmth in caring with no obligation in return.
Aloha is the essence of relationships in which each person is important to every other person for collective existence.
Aloha means to hear what is not said, to see what cannot be seen, and to know the unknowable.
Hawai`i’s signature Aloha Spirit was on full display around the world as the 21 member economies of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) met in Honolulu for the APEC 2011 Summit.
Thousands of high-profile visitors – including key policy makers, economists, and heads of state – traveled from around the Pacific Rim, representing countries such as the U.S., Japan, China, South Korea, Australia, and Canada. Together, APEC member economies make up 55 percent of global GDP, purchase 58 percent of U.S. goods exports, and comprise a market of 2.7 billion consumers.
With a geographic location of shared convenience between the U.S. mainland and Pacific Rim countries, a warm host culture, and top-notch facilities, Hawai`i is an ideal place for an international meeting of political, cultural, and business significance.
We’re excited to welcome guests from around the world to Hawai`i, whether they are conducting business in award-winning facilities and accommodations, taking in the breathtaking scenery, or enjoying one of the state’s many leisure activities. Welcome to our Hawaiian Islands. We hope you experience the spirit of Aloha while you are here.
