As the issues and arguments regarding the Thirty Meter Telescope and cultural practices continue, and only cause more division and bad feelings, I do hope that we can all learn to go beyond the anger and accusations.

The complex situation is a challenge and opportunity for us all to grow spiritually and socially, promoting a positive diversity of cultures by having joint respect for the aina and our fellow man.

To enhance the spirit of aloha, compassion and kindness, I would like to cite a couple of most appropriate quotations of wisdom: “Our task is not to fix blame for the past, but to fix the course for the future” (John F. Kennedy), and, “The ultimate in wisdom is to live in the present, plan for the future, and profit from the past” (anonymous).

Sam Hashimoto

Mililani

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