Have you ever asked yourself, “Who am I?”
I have … many times … and I imagine some of you have as well.
Life events like the birth of a child, marriage and retirement often have a way of prompting that question. Distressing moments can do the same – job loss, a bitter divorce, an unexpected death – moments that just do not seem to make sense.
As we reflect on the current challenges and divisions facing our nation, it is clear what the world needs now is healing, grace and forgiveness. How do we help people heal and what does that mean for each person?
The word healing comes from the Old English hælan, meaning to cure, save, make whole, sound and well. Instead of focusing on ‘being healed’ maybe it is more appropriate to focus on what we need to create wholeness.
Healing goes far beyond the mending of wounds; it is the restoration of hope and unity. In Hawai‘i we often hear and use the word, lōkahi, the Hawaiian word meaning unity, oneness, harmony and agreement. Lōkahi tells us we can unite and have healthy relationships. Even when we do not agree with one another or come from different cultures, races, religions and political parties, we can be one.
Healing requires acknowledgement of the pain and suffering that exists, listening with empathy and working together towards a common purpose. It starts with each of us asking,“Who am I?” and continues in our homes and communities and extends to encompass all of society.
Grace is the willingness to extend kindness and forgiveness, particularly in the face of adversity. It is about showing compassion to others, regardless of differences, and recognizing the humanity in each person. Grace allows us to move forward with haʻahaʻa (humility) and promotes an environment where healing can flourish.
Forgiveness is empowering. It does not mean forgetting, it means releasing anger and resentment and seeking understanding and reconciliation. Forgiveness requires courage and strength and can heal the conflicts that have divided us for far too long.
At PBS Hawai‘i, our mission is to advance learning and discovery through storytelling that profoundly touches lives. While we embrace a multimedia approach to technology, it is extremely important to us to maintain the human touch in all we do. We strive to provide an environment where healing and forgiveness are valued and where conflicts are resolved through fair and balanced dialogue. It is vitally important that we are a part of the solution and are not adding to the chaos.
As we continue on this journey towards healing, grace, and forgiveness, let us remember that change begins with each one of us. Together, we must let empathy guide our actions so that wounds can heal and forgiveness can pave the way for a peaceful tomorrow.
I do not always know “who I am” but I do know that is who I need to be…
