Growing up in Hawaii, locals are immersed in a variety of cultures; immersed not only in the values of their own subculture, but countless others, since Honolulu can be a very transient place as well. Given the constantly evolving ethnic diversity of Hawaii, people born and raised on the pacific islands have lived and experienced a culture that I like to call a "mixed plate."
The Hawaiian word "aloha," translated into English, means "love" or "affection." To me, aloha is not just a word, but also a way of living. The meaning goes beyond any definition you will find in a dictionary. In the famous song "Spread a Little Aloha," sung by Hawaii's own Mana'o Company, locals really believe in their message: "A-L-O-H-A, a little aloha in our day—spread a little aloha around the world." In Hawaii, no matter where you come from, you will be welcomed into the community.
When walking around school campuses of all levels, you can see people from every racial group in the world. A perfect example of this would be at a community center preschool. The keiki, or children, truly lay the foundation for Hawaii's intercultural success. In a room of 20 three- and four-year-olds, there are faces of thrilled Japanese, Korean, Caucasian, Jewish, Middle Eastern, and Filipino kids all waiting to run up and give a hug. To see these kids working with each other no matter what race they are is extremely humbling, because that is what the world is always struggling with, but it bodes well for Hawaii. They are so innocent and accepting, something that seems rare in the international news and media.
Even the food families cook is a mixed plate. One night, it's classic spaghetti, another night, it's Japanese-style chicken tofu, and then suddenly, when getting home from work, there’s the overwhelming scent of Salmon crusted with furikake, a Japanese seasoning consisting of seaweed, bonita, and sesame seeds. The diversity of Hawaii, in every aspect of life, is full of aloha and holds its arms wide open, ready to greet another friendly smile.
Hawaii is without a doubt an extremely diverse locale that should be looked upon as an example to help others. Hawaii's "mixed plate" educates people that given patience and an open mind, there is always something you can learn from others, regardless of age, gender, or race.
