`O ka `olu`olu e hau`oli ia. Kindness brings happiness.
Mary Kawena Pukui
ALOHA FOCUS FOR THE WEEK: OLUʻOLU
Have you ever seen your child ever done something that got you so mad that you just wanted to scream? Maybe it was in a public space and you didn’t want to draw attention yet you needed to stop your child from behaving badly. Did you impulsively yell at them? Did you try to ignore the situation?
According to Uncle Pono Shim, when someone is ʻoluʻolu they are gentle in their relationships and acknowledge its significance. The gentleness of ʻoluʻolu is balanced with strength – an unbreakable spirit or foundation. Aunty Pilahi Paki said that ʻoluʻolu is like carrying a baby. You need to be gentle yet strong. Being ʻoluʻolu requires you to do the right thing at the right time, especially in uncomfortable situations, with the full intention of caring for someone.
My mother’s favorite picture to show my dates used to be one where I was sprawled out on the pavement in the middle of a parking lot of Times Supermarket, throwing a tantrum. I probably was 2 or 3 and according to my parents and older sister, I frequently threw myself onto the ground when I couldn’t get my way. My mom said she was so fearful that I would hit my head. Some parents might have handled the situation differently but my parents chose to wait me out. They made sure I was safe and let me get all the emotions out. After a few minutes (but probably felt like hours) still hyperventilating and sobbing, I was able to get on with the day. It must’ve taken great restraint for them not to grab and shake me while yelling at me to stop – to withstand the judging stares of others or ignore the stinging critiques to “control your child.” Yet, it was the right thing to do, despite the uncomfortableness of the situation. It was ‘oluʻolu. I eventually grew out of that stage and if it weren’t documented or ridiculed for it, I wouldn’t have any recollection. Advised by my pediatrician, Dr. Sia, they knew I was going through a temporary phase, one many other toddlers experience – so much so it has a name, “Terrible Twos” – they knew to be lovingly patient and that all they could do in the moment was to keep me safe.
5 PURSUITS of ʻOLUʻOLU
Inspired by Gholdy Muhammad
In honor of Women’s History Month, I will be featuring stories written by and featuring prominent women of history.
Please watch Nina: A Story of Nina Simone written Traci N. Todd and illustrated by Christian Robinson. Then with you child, answer the following:
- IDENTITY: Talk with your kupuna about songs and music that have been meaningful to them while growing up and why.
- SKILLS: Throughout the story, the author uses metaphors that compare Nina’s feelings and experiences to thunder. Find as many examples as you can.
- INTELLECT: Nina Simone and many of her friends protested against “Jim Crow” laws. Research what were “Jim Crow” laws and why were they called that.
- CRITICALITY: In this story, Nina Simone uses her music to speak out about injustice and hate. If you could write a song about something you’d like to change in the world, what would you like it to be about?
- JOY: Together, listen to a popular song by Nina Simone, Feeling Good,which according to the video’s description, “depicts generations of Black joy and boundless self-expression.” Share songs you spoke about previously in the IDENTITY pursuit.
HOʻOMAIKAʻI SIGHT IS BEAUTIFUL CONTEST WINNERS
Mahalo to all students who entered their works of art to the Kāneʻohe Lion’s Club annual Sight is Beautiful contest. This year, we congratulate 2nd grader Pearl Le who won 2nd place in her division along with Lucia Fraiola and Anela Duldulao who both earned Honorable Mentions. Please see their artwork at the Windward Mall until March 10. Mahalo and congratulations also goes out to teachers Mrs. Moriwake and Mrs. House who inspired their students to enter this contest and showcase their vision for what Sight is Beautiful means to them – awesome job!
DRIVE WITH ALOHA
Mahalo nui loa to many of our ʻohana that drive on and near our campus with aloha. Traffic, especially during the morning rush hour can be frustrating and so we are greatly appreciative of those who are considerate, patient and consistently safe.
As a reminder to those that are persistently driving unsafe, ie speeding on Mokulele, dropping of children in the middle of the street, or cutting in line at the pick-up/drop-off, we ask that you immediately stop these actions. We are concerned for your safety as well as that of your passengers and everyone around. We also strive to promote being a safe and positive role model for our students and ask that you join us in this effort.
CONTINUED PRACTICES:
NOʻAHUNA OF ALOHA
See Uncle Pono Shim explain the Noʻahuna, the esoteric meaning, of Aloha as taught to him by Aunty Pilahi, the Keeper of Secrets.
WEAR PINK FOR MAUI WEDNESDAYS
Join us in letting “that light, that divine inspiration that Aunty Pilahi Paki says is given to you at your very beginning, come through and let your ALOHA join with the ALOHA of the collective to bring about healing.”
DAILY VIRTUAL PIKO
At the Daily Piko, we share thoughts on the Aloha value for the week which helps us become centered and ready to learn. We begin at 8 AM everyday except Wednesdays.
UPCOMING EVENTS
| Wed, Mar 13, 2024 | 4:30 PM KES Wellness Meeting |
| Fri, Mar 15, 2024 | KES Fun Run |
| Mar 18 – 22, 2024 | Spring Break |
| Wed, Mar 27, 2024 | 5 PM KES School Community Council Meeting 6 PM KES Ohana Meeting – Join in-person at the Library or Online |