It is with some reluctance that I present yet another opinion surrounding the Thirty Meter Telescope conflict, which is permeating throughout many levels of our communities, as many others with informed positions and experiences really have more privilege to do so.

Much has been quite eloquently said about each side’s righteousness to maintain their respective feelings, citing relevant history, cultural, spiritual and other events (“The TMT conflict shows how the past permeates the present,” “A society of love, compassion and justice is worth protecting,” Star-Advertiser, Island Voices, Sept. 23).

I personally lament the passing of more simple times during which respect, compassion and kindness were practiced, and admit to still possessing those simple — possibly outdated and naive — values.

However, it is because of just those basic values that I still believe, and feel gratitude in the inherent goodness and aloha in Hawaii and its peoples.

Perhaps, we can all practice yet another virtue — forgiveness.

Sam Hashimoto

Mililani

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