Extraordinary Living

Shortly after returning to Hawaii, I was browsing through TV channels and stumbled upon an interview on a local station. I didn't know why I paused to listen, but my path soon shifted again.

The man being interviewed was Pono Shim, who at the time was the President and CEO of the Oahu Economic Development Board. He spoke about the significance of recognizing "AH HA" moments - of being Pono (in harmony, balance, rightness). He mentioned that by being present in life, we can appreciate the simplicity of what is offered.

Through his mentoring I began to notice that my approach to community service was evolving because it wasn't just about volunteering, nor was it about what we contribute - it was about what emerges as an opportunity for service—the "AH HA" moment.

I stopped opinionating about what I thought the problem was and how it should be "fixed", and started seeing, hearing and speaking with compassion and understanding. I was experiencing ALOHA. Pono taught that Aloha is conveying the "deepest respect and commitment to accepting others and giving dignity to who they are and what they have to offer."

Pono taught me to speak with respect, to show others their worth instead of seeking validation for myself, and to help them recognize the value of their actions. To thank everyone - from those who teach children to the men and women who clean public bathrooms in the shopping malls. He taught me that demonstrating reverence for another, and living this way required courage, practice, and willingness; a willingness to delve deep into the subconscious.

It means being vulnerable, embracing the sacred in everything we see/hear/touch, so that we can lean further into the truth of who we are; not who we think we are. Truth isn't always pleasant—it can sometimes be harsh, but it's part of our essential nature, and we should love, honor, and appreciate all parts of ourselves. Even the shadow.

To be whole is to live in truth. Being extraordinary demands courage, and the willingness to express kindness, and compassion to everyone we encounter.