When do I say Aloha?

Almost every day I use the word, “Aloha,” whether orally or written. It’s such a beautiful word and it’s recognized and known around the world.

I’m often asked, “what does aloha really mean?” My answer is always the same, “Love, pure unconditional love.”

Then comes the next question, “doesn’t it also mean hello and good-bye?”

Then comes my sermon:

I ask them, “how do you feel when you haven’t seen someone for a long time? Someone like maybe a grandparent that lives far away in another state, and maybe you see them but once every so many years. How do you feel when they finally travel all the way to see you? Is there excitement? Are there sometimes tears of joy? Well, that overwhelming feeling of love that you are experiencing, that’s aloha, and that’s how you greet them.”

“Then what about good-bye?” they ask.

“We’re not done,” I tell them. “Now that your grandparent has spent a wonderful week, maybe even a month, visiting with family, sharing recipes, buying gifts, and just really spending that personal one on one time with you. How do you feel when it's time for them to say good-bye? Is there sadness? Are there tears again? Is there that profound question felt in your heart wondering when, and if you’re ever going to see them again? Isn't it a feeling so strong that it hurts, not wanting to let them go? This too is aloha and you say it when you bid them farewell.”

I enjoy seeing the smile and satisfaction on their faces which follows. Most of the time they even say, “Aloha!” as they walk away.