Hoaloha, beloved friend

Welina me ke aloha nui e nā hoa aloha! Each morning I greet you as my hoaaloha, but what does this word actually mean? Hoaaloha translates as friend, but when you look closer at this word we can break it down to two separate word – hoa and aloha, hoa meaning companion and aloha meaning love or beloved. When we put it together we find the definition of friend – a beloved companion. When we look at our culture we find examples of friendship and companionship. I think of Hōpoe who was the beloved companion of Hi'iaka, the younger sister of Pele. Hōpoe taught Hi'iaka to dance hula and Hi'iaka helped Hōpoe take care of her hala groves in Puna. They surfed the shores of NānĀhuki, spent time together in leisurely activities and worked together when there was work to be done. Their friendship was reciprocal. When we think of our friendships today do they resemble those of our kūpuna? I feel blessed to be surrounded by hoaaloha, beloved companions who share my sorrows and my joys, who laugh with me and cry with me and who counsel with me and guide me when I need to make difficult decisions in life. You know, sometimes you feel so piula, tired and exhausted and all it takes is one of your hoaaloha to rejuvenate your spirit. That is true friendship! So, today, the challenge I extend to each of us is to take some time to mahalo aku, give thanks for the hoaaloha in your life. Whether it’s a message on Face Book, an email, a note, a phone or an in person visit, let them know how much you love them and cherish their friendship. I want to extend my gratitude to Ke Akua for the hoaaloha he has blessed me with. Aloha nō, a hui hou. CLICK HERE to listen to and download the podcast of this episode.