Hawaiian Word of the Week: Kao lele

Tomorrow is the 4th of July, a big holiday here in the US. Some people celebrate our freedom from England with the Declaration of Independence by watching a local parade. Others celebrate by going to the beach or having a BBQ. But one of the things most people look forward to is the fireworks at night or the kao lele (pronounced cow leh-leh) that night. 

We use the words kao lele for more than just beautiful, explosive lights in the sky: it can be used as a metaphor for anything explosive. While not always seen as something good, like an explosive argument, I like to think of it in a more positive way….an empowerment to me get through hard times. Singer Katy Perry knows what I mean.

Where will you be watching kao lele tomorrow night? How have you been/are like the kao lele in your life?

Wishing you a wonderful and safe 4th of July holiday!

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