2) What is Pono? Pono is a Hawaiian word that has multiple meanings, including righteousness, balance, harmony, and goodness. It is a concept that goes beyond just being right or wrong; it encompasses the idea of doing what is right, just, and in harmony with the world around us. It is a way of living that is rooted in respect, love, and responsibility for ourselves, others, and the environment. The word pono has been widely used in Hawaiian culture for centuries, and it is deeply ingrained in the Hawaiian way of life. According to Mary Kawena Pukui, a renowned Hawaiian scholar and author of the book “Nana I Ke Kumu,” pono is "the life principle that binds everything in the universe together." It is a concept that is not only relevant to Hawaiian culture but also applicable to people from all walks of life. …show more content…
Imagine you are hiking in the lush green forests of Hawai‘i, and you come across a beautiful waterfall. You notice that some visitors have left litter and plastic bottles scattered around the waterfall, which detracts from the natural beauty of the surroundings. You could simply walk away, thinking it is not your responsibility, or you could take action and pick up the litter to restore the natural beauty of the area. By doing so, you are not only doing the right thing, but you are also living in harmony with the environment around you. This is an excellent example of pono, where one is taking responsibility for the actions and is doing the right thing for the greater good. The Opposite of Pono The opposite of pono is referred to as hewa, which means wrong or incorrect. Hewa is an act that goes against the principles of pono and can have negative consequences for oneself, others, and the environment. It is a concept that is frowned upon in Hawaiian culture and is seen as a way of living that is out of balance and