I am concerned about my Hawaiian people. I am at an age where I know that I am in charge of my own destiny, God willing. My family member was taken advantage of by greedy Hawaiian people, which capitalism encourages - greed.
I went to school and obtained a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies in human relations, and got an higher education so I could show the intellects that I know what I'm talking about.
I am aware of colonialism and the effects it has on native people. My family and I are close-knit. We have our disagreements but we are there for one another no matter what and show much love. We never turn away strangers; we feed hungry people and try not judge them on their appearance. We were taught to be humble and respectful and have the same respect and love for ourselves.
My concern is the Hawaiian today. Many people have forgotten to have self-love and -respect, which causes them not to have love and respect for others. The majority of Hawaiian families are broken because of many years of cultural, psychological and economic oppression. We take it out on one another.
We have to pull together through God. In our lands, we are in charge of our destiny by having aloha for ourselves so we can have aloha for others, and that will allow us to be recognized and make our own decisions.
Desmond Yap
Kahului
