Hawaii Aloha Means Different Things
You have heard the word aloha for many years whether you were watching a television special or a movie about Hawaii. The welcoming of tourists with leis being draped around their necks and given a kiss on the cheek while the lovely ladies say 'aloha' to each person. You are probably thinking that aloha means welcome in their native language. Well, aloha can mean several different things in the Hawaiian language. Now, you are probably a bit confused as to how to appropriately use the word aloha when visiting the islands on your vacation. In the Hawaiian language aloha has several different meanings to include "affection, love, peace, compassion, mercy, goodbye and hello" according to the on-line encyclopedia Wikipedia. However, most people from the mainland only think about it meaning hello or goodbye.
Other sources tell of how Hawaii Aloha means joyful sharing of life. When you share this energy you become in step with the Divine Power that the Hawaiians call 'mana'. Hawaiian's believe that it is through the Divine Power that people learn the secret for health, happiness, prosperity and success. Then, there is the Hawaii Aloha that is an anthem sung by the native people during gatherings. These gatherings can vary in size and can be formal or informal. In particular, this song is sung when the state legislature opens their official sessions and also when the governor is inaugurated. The Hawaii Aloha Spirit is also a feeling that reflects their attitude of friendly acceptance. It can also refer to how you resolve a problem, accomplish a goal or to achieve a state of mind or body that you desire. Most native Hawaiian's do not expect people from the mainland to know all about their customs and language. They know you are visiting and having a great time on vacation or spending time learning more about the culture of the people in our 50th state. So, when you realized that the meaning of aloha varies depending upon the situation it may be difficult for you as a tourist to figure everything out. To play it safe, just think of the word aloha as a way to say hello and goodbye. So go ahead and plan your vacation and remember that you are visiting one of the most beautiful places in the world with some of the friendliest people. Take the time to learn a bit about their islands and remember that regardless of the situation, saying aloha in Hawaiian is just one way that you will be able to flawlessly interact with the people there. Take your flight and know that when you land at the airport you be greeted with a resounding 'aloha'. Remember to respond and to start enjoying your stay in Hawaii. Aloha! |
