Hawaiian Word of the Week: Pono

The ‘cathedrals’ of the Na Pali Coastline, Kauai.

Hawaii’s state motto is ‘Ua Mau Ke Ea o ka ‘Aina i ka Pono’, which means “The life of the land is perpetuated by righteousness.” ‘Pono’ (pronounced: poh-noh) is translated as ‘righteousness’ but as with many Hawaiian words, there is a much deeper meaning than the translation.

To be pono means that you are in alignment and in harmony with what is happening in your life. It is everything from being ‘pono’ with the earth by leaving it better for future generations (environmental) or even being pono in your relationships with your kupuna, neighbors, family and friends (relationship). Pono in relationships meaning an absence of any negativity. Using ho’oponopono you can help to strengthen those relationships if they aren’t pono.

Pono is something that we should all strive for…to make this world a better place. How are you pono in your life? Comment below!

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