Select an option below to continue reading this premium story.
Already a Honolulu Star-Advertiser subscriber? Log in now to continue reading.
Our hearts go out to friends and relatives of the Oda family.
What stands out are the number of times Paris Oda stated his intentions of murder-suicide.
It is a common form of denial to believe that such threats are merely drama, a means of manipulating others. It is assumed that the potential for violence is not real.
Sad to say, this assumption is wrong. Dead wrong. Threats of suicide should always, always be taken seriously. The sick person must be taken care of by professional caregivers who know what to do. Too often, threats are discounted and lives are lost.
This is not to point any fingers today. Not everyone knows the truth about such threats. Intentions are genuine in wanting to help. We do what we can.
If I ever again hear a suicide threat, I will call 911 for assistance and care.
Beverly Kai
Kakaako
EXPRESS YOURSELF
The Honolulu Star-Advertiser welcomes all opinions. Want your voice to be heard? Submit a letter to the editor.
>> Write us: We welcome letters up to 150 words, and guest columns of 500-600 words. We reserve the right to edit for clarity and length. Include your name, address and daytime phone number.
>> Mail: Letters to the Editor, Honolulu Star-Advertiser 7 Waterfront Plaza, 500 Ala Moana, Suite #7-500 Honolulu, HI 96813
>> Contact: 529-4831 (phone), letters@staradvertiser.com, staradvertiser.com/editorial/submit-letter