Learning the spirit of aloha
I have completed 14 Ironman races in my l life. It has been my life’s work and dream to race in Kona. What other sport can we be on stage with the best athletes in the world just because you’ve done enough of them. I honestly never considered the possibility of not finishing.
As I finished mile 11 of the marathon my whole world came crashing down. As I stood there imagining the disappointment of my family and friends I heard a voice in the night. To my surprise is was not a voice of pity but a soft spoken native voice: “Here is a chair, sit down and look how beautiful the moon is.”As it turns out Ironman is not the meaning of life. It was however a pathway to learn the spirit of aloha.
In a world increasingly dependent on technology and progress the spirit of tradition and honor for one another and the world around us is alive and well in Kona. Thank you to the people of the Big Island for bringing the world together in a place that understands this. I finished my run the day after, alone, but not alone. I will always have the spirit of aloha deep in my heart.
Thomas C. Gavin
Diamond Point, New York
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Living under a rock?
Does Dennis Gregory really live under a lava rock? His column in last Thursday’s WHT really showed he has no idea what’s been going on in the world. Schools, churches, super markets, bars and theaters. These are the places that have been the scenes of mass shootings. His view of every punk on the island packing heat is just a chicken little response to the Supreme Courts decision. I for one would welcome trained and vetted citizens armed and having my back in a world that gets scarier every day.
Warren Hahlbeck
Waikoloa
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An exceptional performance
A huge thank you to West Hawaii Today for printing the article showcasing the Hilo Palace presentation of the Lion King Junior. I was fortunate enough to snag the last two tickets for the Sunday matinée performance. I was just looking for an interesting afternoon to share with my daughter who was visiting from the mainland. We received so much more than that!
Having seen multiple live theater productions on Broadway, Washington D.C., San Francisco, Denver, as well as small local productions, I can say unequivocally; this performance was fantastic. I perceived absolutely no missed steps in lines. In vocals, all notes were hit accurately, the lines were delivered perfectly with believability! I was captivated as was my daughter. I cannot thank the theater company and all of these fabulous charming talented young performers enough. A special shout out goes to the performers plane Nalle and Simba and Mufasa. All versions, child and adult. However, if there was one actor that stole the show it was the performance of Timon. Exceptional! Do yourselves a favor, and if you see any production by the Hilo community theater just go.
Sherrill Tillger
Waikoloa
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