Kokua Line: Readers give thanks for kindness that keeps us connected

On Thanksgiving Day, we devote Kokua Line to readers’ expressions of gratitude, which are plentiful even during a year that has been difficult and isolating for so many. Whether thanking someone for a kind deed, a lifesaving act, or simply a positive attitude, the sense of connection a heartfelt Mahalo conveys is appreciated always.

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I am thankful for the help Debbie B., Kathleen B., Sue Anne H., and Chris T. gave me when I broke my left shoulder and right foot and was struggling to care for myself and my dog. They drove me to medical appointments, helped me with grocery shopping and walked my dog. Andy B. has also shown kindness and compassion during a very difficult time for me. I would like to thank all these people for their kokua. — Mahalo nui loa, Pam L.

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I want to thank all my students at Kalaheo High School in my U.S. History, Economics and Yearbook classes for sticking with it! It has not been easy, and it’s so tempting when you’re learning from home and your bed is so close and is calling your name. The poem Invictus said it best, “It matters not how strait the gate, How charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.” It’s reminding us that we have free will, we can persevere! — Mrs. Shaffer

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Mahalo to the good Samaritan who returned my Fire Department medallion commemorating 24 years of service. It was stolen over 20 years ago and it’s finally back in my possession. Mahalo! I am still missing my Martin Baritone Ukulele. Watch out for the bachi. — Francis H., retired HFD captain

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Mahalo to the people who arranged for and ran the COVID-19 testing site at Kaneohe District Park on Nov. 17. It was well run and efficient. I am grateful to all of you. — Windward Senior

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I am grateful to my friend Laura M. for getting me involved with Meals on Wheels — a most rewarding and gratitude-inducing experience in this crazy year. — Lynda

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A very great mahalo to Maria S., a nurse in the internal medicine unit at Tripler Army Medical Center. There are no words to express the depth of my appreciation. — Grateful senior citizen

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On the last Sunday in October, about 11:30 a.m., my Honda got stalled right in the middle of the intersection at Kalakaua Avenue and Young Street. Three or four guys came rushing to push the car to the side of the road. Your willingness and fast action to help a woman in a dangerous situation are much appreciated. You guys are full of Aloha Spirit. — Very grateful driver

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Many thanks to those who take care of COVID-19 patients, in any capacity. We owe you so much. — A reader

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Mahalo to all those people who still go to work every day so the rest of the people can have services: sales clerks in food stores, those who stock the shelves, teachers, library workers, etc. — Thomas L.

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Mahalo to the kind and honest gentleman who found my wristlet on Ulupuni Street. He restores my faith in the human race! — With aloha, Char D.

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A great big mahalo to Wesley Lau, who happened to be working at the cemetery when I thoughtlessly put my car keys in my purse, put the purse in the trunk, then pressed the car door button to lock the car. He retrieved my purse and refused payment for a time-consuming professional job in the hot sun. — Grateful senior citizen

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A belated mahalo from a grateful kupuna to a lovely young couple named Heather and John. My son and I went to Costco Waipio at a time when the long line went all the way around the building. We were wending our way to the end of it when this generous, gracious couple motioned us to go in front of them. God bless their sweet hearts! Stay healthy. Stay positive. — Mahalo, Jane

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Mahalo to the many readers who expressed gratitude for Kokua Line as a source of information and encouragement. I appreciate you too! Thanks for reading. Happy Thanksgiving. — Christine Donnelly

Write to Kokua Line at Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu 96813; call 529-4773; fax 529-4750; or email kokualine@staradvertiser.com.