Recently, my wife and I received sad news from one of our best friends. Her husband had passed away. While processing our own shock and sadness, we asked ourselves what we could do to help and comfort her. When we asked her if she would like us to come right away, she declined. Then she asked just my wife to spend a few days with her around the time of his celebration of life.
I didn’t feel hurt that she did not ask me to come with my wife. I thought about her request and the needs of an increasing number of people in our age group after the loss of a spouse. I recalled Sting’s words, “The bed’s too big without you.” The loss of a life partner affects every part of life. So it made sense that our friend wanted only my wife to come. Being with another couple might amplify her new solitary state—the fact that she is no longer part of a couple. So having one person there might better help her deal with her initial stages of grief.
To console our friend, my wife and I agreed that it would be best to keep our expressions of sympathy brief. “I’m so sorry for your loss.” There is no explaining the death of a spouse. Our words, perspectives and predictions of the future in an attempt to comfort, can inadvertently serve as painful triggers. Our well-intentioned attempts to comfort may actually make things worse, bringing crisis, not comfort. We decided it may be better to express our sympathies with long, warm hugs and brief, heartfelt words.
Also in the category of unintended consequences, doing something as simple as making a traditional casserole for a solitary grieving person may only accentuate their new state of solitude. Instead, if you share a love for a special dish, make it and bring it over to their house and join them for dinner. Or, a change of scenery via an outing to lunch or dinner may be another option.
A practical way to help out may be an offer to be their chauffeur or “executive assistant” for a day or two, as needed. There are multitudes of necessary tasks that can be overwhelming in those first days and weeks. Sorting through bank accounts and insurance policies, along with many other details, can prove to be daunting. With so much to do, just ask how you can be useful.
But simple, quiet companionship may provide something far more comforting than a casserole or a car ride. Your presence alone may gently spark shared memories and fun times, giving your friend the opportunity to reminisce, laugh, cry and open up on their own terms, in their own time. Your friend may derive the most comfort in the quiet of you just being there.
Recently, my wife and I received sad news from one of our best friends. Her husband had passed away. While processing our own shock and sadness, we asked ourselves what we could do to help and comfort her. When we asked her if she would like us to come right away, she declined. Then she…
The 100th Infantry Battalion was a segregated fighting unit composed almost entirely of second-generation American soldiers of Japanese ancestry (Nisei). Hawai‘i’s One Puka Puka (100th) boys overcame many obstacles and, with the 442nd Regimental Combat Team (RCT), became the most decorated unit in US military history. But after over 80 years, the legacy of these Nisei soldiers seems to be fading.
In response, Hawai‘i State Department of Education (DOE) Superintendent Keith Hayashi and educators, in collaboration with the Hawai‘i State DOE and the 100th Infantry Battalion Veterans’ board, will introduce students to the history, values and enduring impact of the battalion through embedded lessons that will educate students about their sacrifices.
(L–R, front) Hawai‘i Technology Academy (HTA)Teacher Shiloh Francis, DOE Superintendent Keith Hayashi and (back) HTA students Maria and Alishay are learning about the enduring impact of the 100th Infantry Battalion through letters written to Lt. Col. Farrant Turner, the first commanding officer of the battalion.
Beginning in 2026, the lessons will be piloted at James Campbell, Kalani, Maui and Mililani High Schools for 9th and 10th graders. The intent of the pilot is to refine and then share the lesson plan with all public high schools in the state. The coursework will be incorporated into existing US and modern Hawai‘i history curricula instead of being presented in a standalone class to give more students the opportunity to learn how the values of courage, service and community continue to shape Hawai‘i.
“It’s important for our keiki to know where they are going, important to know who came before them and the sacrifices that were made so that they can enjoy the freedoms and democracy that we have today,” Superintendent Hayashi says.
In the classes, students will identify a problem facing Hawai‘i, study the values that guided the soldiers of the 100th and create community service projects of their own so they can leave their own lasting mark—a legacy handed down to students from 100th and 442nd kūpuna.
The 100th Infantry Battalion was a segregated fighting unit composed almost entirely of second-generation American soldiers of Japanese ancestry (Nisei). Hawai‘i’s One Puka Puka (100th) boys overcame many obstacles and, with the 442nd Regimental Combat Team (RCT), became the most decorated unit in US military history. But after over 80 years, the legacy of these…
The tango is a very deep human experience with a very long history. In the late 19th century, immigrants in Argentina listened to its haunting music and created a unique, intimate dance, eventually called the “tango.” Born from a unique blend of African, European and indigenous cultures in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, modern tango is the result of an unbroken chain rooted in prehistoric times.
Tango is a social dance. The essence of the tango is finding connection with your partner, while communicating through movement. A good dance leader listens to his partner. If the leader is communicating effectively, he will adjust his movements for the pleasure of his partner.
“Tango is more than dancing and spiritually deeper than the dance itself,” says Josefina Stellato, tango maestro at Still & Moving Center at 1024 Queen St. in Honolulu. From early childhood, Josefina had a desire to be a tango dancer. She was born in Tandil, Argentina, where she learned the dance as a child. She moved to Buenos Aires at age 17 to study tango with renowned teachers. She attended a variety of tango schools for about 22 years and danced in musical stage productions.
Josefina began teaching tango in Honolulu two years ago at the invitation of one of the top instructors in Honolulu. She has also taught in California, New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. She says she would enjoy instructing students in Hawai‘i schools and in Japan.
“Tango is a beautiful dance,” she says. “It is a deep art. By embracing your partner, you communicate with even a first-time partner, not with words, but with your movements. Tango is a conversation conducted through movement — communication of mutual feelings and trust, and stylized movement to show you care for another person.”
“When you dance tango, you meet people and friendships blossom,” she says. “Tango is also beneficial for elders. It teaches you balance — one of the many benefits of dancing tango. In tango, your partner is embracing you. It is rare you would fall. If you can stand, you can dance the tango.”
Also, tango is broad in scope. It is ageless. Josefina’s thoughts about tango are deep and profound. She says, “In my private time, I think of the important things of tango. For example, if the communication from the leader to his partner is done well, the partner will relax, trust the leader’s movements and the commitment to the dance deepens. The heart, mind and soul are in the present. The joy of tango is to attain peace of mind, calmness of your emotions and serenity through the dance movements of tango.”
“While dancing, I am in another mental state,” she says. The art of mindful movement, a moving meditation, a grounded exercise in awareness, presence, connection and creative expression… Yes, tango can be surprisingly Zen-like. At its best, it demands the same qualities as meditation: presence, awareness, acceptance and letting go. Time disappears — the outside world falls away…
The tango is a very deep human experience with a very long history. In the late 19th century, immigrants in Argentina listened to its haunting music and created a unique, intimate dance, eventually called the “tango.” Born from a unique blend of African, European and indigenous cultures in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, modern…
For many of Hawai‘i’s kūpuna, navigating life after retirement is a journey of kūlia, striving forward to find comfort and support as daily needs change. Whether it’s considering a move, seeking more kōkua at home or planning ahead, the search for the right living arrangement can feel confusing. Choices differ in the type of support offered, how daily life is structured and what level of independence they allow.
According to the State of Hawai‘i Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT), about 22.6% of Hawai‘i’s residents are age 65 or older, compared with roughly 19% nationally. DBEDT’s most recent projections estimate that by 2030, kūpuna will make up about 24% of the state’s population, continuing a trend that is outpacing the rest of the country. With Hawai‘i’s kūpuna population growing faster than the national average, retirement living across the islands is shifting in real time. This demographic change means more ‘ohana are reaching these decisions sooner and with greater complexity as they look for options that align with their needs, values and the way they want to live in the years ahead.
■ Kōkua at Home: Aging in Place
For many kūpuna, remaining at home with added kōkua is one of the most familiar and preferred options. Costs in Hawai‘i vary widely depending on the level of help needed. Part-time assistance — around seven hours per week — may cost under $1,000 a month. Homemaker services and home health aides in Honolulu typically range from $50 to $100 per hour, depending on certification level, location and the services provided.
For kūpuna who qualify financially, Hawai‘i’s Med-QUEST program can cover home health services, homemaker support and personal care. As of 2026, the income limit is $1,530 per month for individuals, with a one-time $2,000 asset limit. Med-QUEST uses a share-of-cost model, meaning some applicants whose income exceeds the limit may still qualify by spending down on care expenses. Many ‘ohana combine Med-QUEST coverage with private-pay support.
Beyond financial support, intentional home modifications can help kūpuna age in place safely and comfortably. Simple changes like improved lighting, removing tripping hazards and decluttering make a significant difference in daily safety. For those who need additional support, grab bars and rails in bathrooms and hallways provide stability, while chair lifts and stair lifts allow kūpuna to navigate their homes with greater independence.
According to the 2024 Healthcare Association of Hawai‘i Workforce Report, Hawai‘i has a 30% vacancy rate for home health aides, a gap that makes early planning for caregiver support even more important for kūpuna and their ‘ohana.
■ Independent Living Communities
Independent living communities are designed for active, self-sufficient kūpuna who want to be part of a community but don’t require daily assistance. Residents live in their own apartments or homes within a setting that typically offers group dining, social activities, fitness programs, transportation services and emergency response systems. Unlike assisted living, there’s no staff support for personal care or medications — kūpuna manage their own daily routines.
According to Hawai‘i senior living providers, independent living in Hawai‘i costs range from around $3,500 to $10,000 or more per month, depending on unit size and location.
Medicaid and Medicare do not cover the cost of living in independent living communities, so most residents pay out of pocket, often using retirement savings, home sale proceeds or reverse mortgages. Hawai‘i also has income-based senior housing communities designed for active kūpuna on fixed incomes.
Standard independent living communities typically do not require entrance fees, though some may request a deposit. While visiting independent living communities, asking what activities and services are included, and being clear about your budget can help your ‘ohana find an option that fits their needs.
■ Assisted Living & Residential Care: Support with Daily Living
Assisted living facilities and residential care homes provide support for kūpuna who can no longer manage daily activities independently at home. Both settings offer meals, medication management, help with bathing and dressing, housekeeping and 24/7 staff availability. The main difference is size: Assisted living facilities are larger communities with more amenities and social activities, while residential care homes (ARCHs) are smaller, home-like settings that typically house four to eight residents. In Hawai‘i, assisted living averages $9,340 to $11,311 per month, though actual costs range from $5,900 to $12,200 depending on unit size (studios to shared units) and location. Residential care home pricing varies based on the level of care provided.
Before moving in, understand what’s included and what isn’t. Most facilities require a refundable deposit before admission; entrance fees vary. Some communities, particularly continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), require substantial non-refundable entrance fees upfront. Some facilities also review income and assets before admitting residents. Many ‘ohana pay out of pocket, use long-term care insurance or combine resources to cover costs. Speak with a financial advisor and ask questions about included services and additional charges.
■ Dementia Care: When Specialized Support is Needed
Memory care facilities provide specialized support for kūpuna with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Unlike standard assisted living, memory care involves a secure environment, staff trained in dementia care and 24-hour supervision. These settings are designed for kūpuna who can no longer safely live independently or in regular assisted living — those who may wander, become confused about safety or need constant monitoring. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 35,000 kūpuna in Hawai‘i are currently living with dementia.
In Honolulu, monthly costs range from $9,000 to $12,000 or more; costs may differ on other islands. This includes room, board, meals, activities tailored to dementia and 24/7 care.
Understanding What Works for Your Family
What works for one kūpuna may not work for another — and what feels right today may shift as needs change. ‘Ohana approach these decisions in different ways, shaped by values and finances.
Many ‘ohana begin by exploring what matters most to their kūpuna — independence, community, proximity to family or the familiarity of home. Others look first at costs, available benefits or the types of care each setting provides. Facility visits, financial planning tools and conversations with providers can help ‘ohana understand their options. Local resources, including Hawai‘i’s Area Agencies on Aging, provide information about programs, benefits and support services available statewide.
As Hawai‘i’s kūpuna population continues to grow, understanding the range of housing and care options becomes increasingly important. Clear information — about costs, services, eligibility and the realities of each setting — allows ‘ohana to make decisions that reflect their needs, values and aloha for the years ahead.
For many of Hawai‘i’s kūpuna, navigating life after retirement is a journey of kūlia, striving forward to find comfort and support as daily needs change. Whether it’s considering a move, seeking more kōkua at home or planning ahead, the search for the right living arrangement can feel confusing. Choices differ in the type of support…
Many people believe family history begins with old photographs, genealogy charts or lists of names and dates.
While those things are important, I teach kūpuna that family history truly begins with something much simpler: your own story — preserving family history through personal memory.
If we fail to tell our personal stories, the links between generations slowly disappear. Grandchildren may know where they came from, but they may never know who their ancestors truly were — their struggles, traditions or dreams.
I often compare family history to making a lei. Each memory is like a flower added one piece at a time. Alone, each memory may seem small, but together they create something beautiful and lasting. When stories are left untold, empty spaces are left behind for future generations.
One of the most important lessons I share is that you do not need to be a professional writer. A simple notebook, loose paper or recorded conversation can become a treasured family history.
Start with small moments: What was your childhood home like? What foods remind you of family gatherings? Who taught you important lessons? What traditions made your family unique?
Often, as kūpuna begin talking about their lives, forgotten memories naturally return. I have seen this many times while helping elders write their personal histories. One memory unlocks another, almost like opening old drawers and rediscovering treasures tucked away for years.
I also encourage families to talk story about loved ones who have passed on. Celebrating a heavenly birthday or remembering someone on an anniversary — whether it marks a loss, a milestone or a past relationship — can gently reopen important connections.
Memories are closely tied to our senses. Talking about favorite meals, familiar music or what an old neighborhood looked like can help awaken details long forgotten.
Sometimes one of the best ways to help memories return is to revisit meaningful places. Taking a senior family member on a drive through an old neighborhood, stopping at a former school, church or family home can spark stories that have been resting quietly for years.
Today there are wonderful tools available to help preserve memories. Websites such as FamilySearch (familysearch.org/en/united-states) offer free ways to record stories, upload photographs and preserve audio memories for future generations. This can be especially helpful for kūpuna who find writing difficult but enjoy speaking about their memories and life experiences.
But technology is only a tool. The real gift is the willingness to share.
The important thing is not to wait for the perfect time or perfect words. Simply begin.
Vicki Boswell is the Founder and President of Hōkūlani Children’s Theatre of Moloka‘i and a dedicated advocate for life skill development among kūpuna. Drawing from her lifelong experience with hearing loss, she teaches practical, multisensory communication strategies that strengthen connection and reduce isolation. Vicki holds a BA in educational psychology and an MSW with a child and family emphasis. She loves working with children and kūpuna, helping them build confidence, express themselves and stay meaningfully connected within their communities. If you have a story to share, email the editor: debra@generations808.com.
Many people believe family history begins with old photographs, genealogy charts or lists of names and dates. While those things are important, I teach kūpuna that family history truly begins with something much simpler: your own story — preserving family history through personal memory. If we fail to tell our personal stories, the links between…
When my family started volunteering for Hawai‘i Meals on Wheels on Thanksgiving in 2023, I honestly didn’t want to do it. My mom signed us up, and my dad and I just went along with it. I was 12 years old and I remember thinking, “Why am I being forced to do this?” I wanted to hang out with my friends or watch my iPad. I’m now 15 and I’m really glad she made me do it.
Delivering meals to kūpuna showed me how different life can be for other people. Some don’t have family nearby, some can’t cook anymore and some can’t even drive to get groceries. I never really thought about these things. My favorite part is seeing them smile when I bring them their food. They also talk to me and ask me questions like how old I am, where I go to school and even if I play sports. Talking with them has helped me be able to talk to strangers and new people, which is something I have to learn to do. This experience made me learn to not only help others, but it is helping me grow, too.
I’ve started volunteering at my school office and library this summer. My mom signed me up because she said she needed more time to work instead of driving me all over the place. It turned out to be a lot of fun. I met new people, learned how to speak to staff, did office work and helped out the librarians. I am also collecting service points to go toward a service cord, a braided honor cord worn at graduation to recognize community service, when I graduate from Moanalua High School. This is helping me get more volunteer hours that will look good on college applications and scholarships.
My mom always tells me that it’s better to give than to receive, but I mean… getting money is still pretty nice, not gonna lie! Next year, I will still volunteer, but I also want to get my first job. I love shopping and going out with my friends, and apparently I need to start paying for those things myself. Plus, I want to start saving for my future, maybe even for a house someday.
Even though I didn’t want to volunteer in the beginning, I’m really glad my mom made me do it. It turned out that this changed the way I see other people — and myself.
Lexie Arnold is a 10th grader at Moanalua High School and the daughter of GM Publisher Cynthia Arnold. She loves to dance and play softball, hang out with her friends and volunteer for organizations on the island.
When my family started volunteering for Hawai‘i Meals on Wheels on Thanksgiving in 2023, I honestly didn’t want to do it. My mom signed us up, and my dad and I just went along with it. I was 12 years old and I remember thinking, “Why am I being forced to do this?” I wanted…
This year’s Social Security Trustees report sends a clear message: Congress needs to act. The latest projections show Social Security’s Trust Fund reserves are expected to be depleted by 2034. That means without Congressional action, Social Security will have about 80% of the money it needs to make full payments. Congress needs to act to fill the 20% gap and they have plenty of tools in their toolbox to do it.
Some special interests in Washington will seize on this report to push proposals that would cut Social Security by reducing payments, raising the retirement age or otherwise shifting the burden onto hardworking Americans. We are fighting against this.
At AARP we hear every day from older Americans across the country who are struggling to make ends meet, like Victoria in Hawai‘i, who told us she depends on Social Security to pay her mortgage and bills. “Without it, my financial security would be shattered,” she said.
She’s not alone. A recent AARP Financial Security Trends Survey found that six in 10 Americans 50 and over worry about whether they will have enough to stay financially secure in retirement. Nearly seven in 10 say prices are rising faster than their income. Almost half report higher healthcare costs than just a year ago.
At the same time, many are entering retirement without enough savings — 42% of adults 0-plus who are not yet retired have less than $50,000 set aside. This is why Social Security remains a lifeline. It helps people cover basic needs like housing, groceries, utilities and healthcare. Even with that support, a majority of older Americans say today’s average benefit (around $2,000 a month) is not enough.
For millions of Americans — including 302,577 here in Hawai‘i — Social Security is an essential part of their plan for financial security in retirement. It is earned through a lifetime of hard work. Social Security is not a bonus or a handout and it must be protected.
The good news is Social Security isn’t going broke. This is absolutely something Congress can fix in a way that protects the money we’ve earned, without cuts. Lawmakers have time to act and there are many ways to strengthen Social Security and close the projected funding gap. You can join our fight to maintain your earned Social Security benefits. Go to action.aarp.org/protectsocialsecurity to learn more.
This year’s Social Security Trustees report sends a clear message: Congress needs to act. The latest projections show Social Security’s Trust Fund reserves are expected to be depleted by 2034. That means without Congressional action, Social Security will have about 80% of the money it needs to make full payments. Congress needs to act to…
Centuries ago in China, tai chi was a form of martial arts. It was practiced as an internal force, not brute strength. Certain hand movements and footwork were taught as techniques of tai chi. Techniques of pushing hands were an important part of tai chi and this technique was to maintain combat efficiency. Currently, tai chi is a sports activity in some parts of China, enjoyed by many athletes.
“Tai chi has made a great, positive impact on my life,” says Elizabeth Thu Hai Pham, the current tai chi instructor at the YMCA Kaimuki Wai‘alae Branch. “I teach kūpuna tai chi, mainly the prevention of falling and the hand movements and footwork if the kūpuna should find himself or herself in a situation of unexpectedly falling. Tai chi consists of slow movements, and consequently, it is easy for a kūpuna to learn. Because it is slow, kūpuna gradually become graceful and acquire balance in everyday life.”
Elizabeth was born in Vietnam. In the final days of the Vietnam War in 1975, she fled, leaving her family possessions behind. She traveled to New Jersey, where her brother-in-law resided.
In America, she cried to God, “‘Why me?’ My father was weak. He didn’t have enough to eat. But I learned whatever happens makes us stronger. Every Saturday, Vietnamese refugees came to our small apartment for a bowl of soup from my grandmother. Our family didn’t have enough to eat, but when you have little, I was taught to share what little you have with someone who has nothing.”
Tai Chi Master Dr. Paul Lam taught her not only the tai chi forms, but also her strengths and weaknesses, because “by learning such conditions, you look within yourself,” Elizabeth says. “You learn about yourself, how to focus, how to breathe properly and how to move your energy deliberately without rushing, with calmness of the mind, now called ‘mindfulness.’ My master said I must honor myself.” Dr. Lam is recognized throughout the world as a Tai Chi Grand Master.
Elizabeth, who I will now call “sensei” (Japanese for teacher or highly respected person), has been awarded a tai chi certificate for her completion of training in tai chi education and skills. She is certified to teach the remedy for arthritis and the prevention of falling of all levels, more particularly for kūpuna. Pham Sensei says, “Myself and the kūpuna who attend my classes are in a support group. There is no denying that, in their own way, the kūpuna support me and I do my best to support them. We honor, respect and practice tai chi for the benefit of our health, to reduce arthritis and to prevent falling.”
Pham Sensei continues by saying, “Proper breathing has an important connection with the brain. Unless you can relax and have peace of mind, it adversely affects the waves in your brain, which results in poor health.”
She also emphasizes drinking water: “Our body requires water, because our blood needs water. I encourage everyone to drink at least 17 fluid ounces of water each day.”
Pham Sensei rises at 3am daily, does her tai chi exercises and attends church where she prays for everyone and finds spiritual peace. In the early morning she has time to think, she says. As her Tai Chi Master recommended, she enjoys her life the best she can, particularly since her early years had been a time of suffering.
Her enduring advice for everyone, not only kūpuna, is to be slow and gentle in all aspects of life. Practice tai chi every day to maintain your health, peace of mind and happiness.
“Tai chi has made a great difference in my life, good health, clear thinking, lots of friends and happiness,” Pham Sensei says. “If you practice tai chi every day, slow and gentle, a certain spirituality will emerge in your life.”
Centuries ago in China, tai chi was a form of martial arts. It was practiced as an internal force, not brute strength. Certain hand movements and footwork were taught as techniques of tai chi. Techniques of pushing hands were an important part of tai chi and this technique was to maintain combat efficiency. Currently, tai…
In Japanese culture, rank is important. It signifies accomplishment, perseverance and strict adherence to righteous values. Hiromi Nakai Peterson has attained the rank of eighth dan (Hachidan), the highest rank in Shodo, the traditional Japanese art of artistic calligraphy. Derived from “sho” (writing) and “do” (way or path), it represents a spiritual discipline rather than just a technique, similar to martial arts. The art originated in China and was introduced to Japan around the sixth to seventh centuries.
Hiromi with her father and older brother in 1953. PC: Hiromi Peterson
Hiromi was born in Hiroshima City, Japan, three years after the atomic bomb was dropped. The city was still in a state of profound devastation, resembling a “wasteland of crooked steel and charred rubble.” But, miraculously, she and her family survived. Whether by divine intervention or by geographic good fortune, a hill called “Hijimayama” partially protected her family residence from the terrible blast of blinding light and radiation that emanated from the first atomic bomb dropped on humanity.
Hiromi’s Shodo introduction and education started quite early. In Japan, Shodo is taught as part of the regular curriculum. She also attended Shodo classes with her two older sisters, starting in kindergarten. After high school, she enrolled at the Kyoto University of Foreign Studies to learn English. After graduation, she returned to Hiroshima and taught high school English.
During a summer break, she attended summer school at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, where she met William Peterson, a professor of computer science. After months of courtship, traveling between Hawai’i and Japan, William proposed to Hiromi. They eventually married, despite her family’s disapproval. The atomic bombing was most likely the reason.
Hiromi studied Shodo in Hawai‘i with an informal group. They took written exams and sent them to Japan for credit. Hiromi’s rank rose. Her formal Shodo education started when she met Amaishi sensei (teacher), who owned and operated a Shodo school and published a Shodo magazine in Japan. Amaishi sensei is the owner and executive of Shodo schools throughout Japan.
To obtain her seventh dan, Hiromi sent her written exam to Amaishi sensei. Then for her eighth dan exam, she travelled to the sensei’s school for her exam. Hiromi passed her eighth dan exam, received her teaching certificate and also received her professional name of “Toka” (“to” means east; “ka” means flower).
In Shodo there are three basic styles. Kaisho is regular block script, Gyosho is semi-cursive script and Sosho is cursive script. Peterson sensei has become highly skilled in both Gyosho and Sosho.
Peterson sensei also taught Japanese language at Punahou School for 30 years. She co-authored a Japanese textbook, which was donated to Punahou. She also co-authored a teacher’s manual. Her former students express their indebtedness to her for her patient, warm and supportive demeanor.
The life lessons Shodo offers are many and profound, all positively affecting the soul. “The practice of Shodo is like meditation,” she says. “It involves breathing, focus and clarity of mind. As you practice, it coordinates the hand, mind and body. The more you practice, you learn to let go and to go beyond. It leads to freedom. I begin each day with Shodo. It brings together all the goodness in hopes that the hours of the day will give us peace and serenity.”
Like a phoenix rising from the dark and forsaken ashes of Hiroshima, Peterson sensei attained cultural and artistic heights. She sought her own path with a clear, spiritual mind and an unwavering devotion to Shodo.
In Japanese culture, rank is important. It signifies accomplishment, perseverance and strict adherence to righteous values. Hiromi Nakai Peterson has attained the rank of eighth dan (Hachidan), the highest rank in Shodo, the traditional Japanese art of artistic calligraphy. Derived from “sho” (writing) and “do” (way or path), it represents a spiritual discipline rather than…
On Memorial Day 2026, on the 250th birthday of America, please reflect and honor all military men and women who died for our freedom and for our country. As we honor America’s history and hope for its future, we are reminded that a strong country needs to correct errors and continue to improve “to form a more perfect union” as envisioned in our Constitution.
On Jan. 26, 2026, I was fortunate to see continuous improvement for the USA in action when the US Army Pacific (USARPAC), in partnership with the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa (UH), honored seven World War II UH Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) cadets during a posthumous commissioning ceremony at Ke‘ehi Lagoon Memorial State Park. This action by the US Army corrected an error of the past and is highly commendable “for a more perfect union.”
With the hysteria of war, Americans of Japanese ancestry (AJA) were unjustly discriminated against, accused of sabotage and endured mass incarcerations, which crushed their self-esteem. AJA ROTC cadets attending UH were forced out of the program and deemed “enemy aliens” solely because they looked like the Japanese enemy. Later, when they were allowed to join the US Army, many did. Seven were killed serving their country in the AJA 100th/442nd unit and never had a chance to re-enter the ROTC program to become officers. The former cadets: Staff Sgt. Grover Nagaji, Sgt. Howard Urabe, Sgt. Robert Murata, Sgt. Jenhatsu Chinen, Sgt. Daniel Betsui, Pfc. Hiroichi Tomita and Pvt. Akio Nishikawa. They were posthumously commissioned to second lieutenant officer status.
The 100th and 442nd were fierce soldiers and loyal Americans and would overcome America’s initial betrayal to become one of the most decorated in US military history. In 1948, President Truman issued Executive Order 9981 that desegregated the military—one of the first acts of civil rights in America—due to members of the segregated unit proving their loyalty.
We owe so much to these AJA trailblazers who, despite being betrayed by their country, still put their lives on the line for “a more perfect union.”
We are proud of America for acknowledging and correcting prior decisions. Happy 250th and God bless America!
On Memorial Day 2026, on the 250th birthday of America, please reflect and honor all military men and women who died for our freedom and for our country. As we honor America’s history and hope for its future, we are reminded that a strong country needs to correct errors and continue to improve “to form…
Experience may help develop intuition and that intuition just might prove to be more effective when diagnosing a patient’s illness than cold technology. Human insight in this AI-infested world may detect the essence and spirit of a patient that technology alone is incapable of understanding. Dr. Myron E. Shirasu, in his early 90s, has treated four generations of patients relying on more than 50 years of medical experience that has led to profound insights into each of his patients. The human touch of this old-school physician, characterized by active listening, kindness and respect, combines thorough, hands-on physical exams with empathetic, unhurried and personalized care, fostering deep trust. His art-of-medicine approach utilizes the power of touch to diagnose, comfort and connect, rather than relying solely on data and test results.
Dr. Shirasu is a country boy who “pulled himself up by his bootstraps” to become a successful Honolulu physician. He was born in Shimane, Japan, and came to Hawai‘i at the age of 3. His father was a Buddhist priest assigned to Hilo Hongwanji. But like many Buddhist priests during WWII, he was incarcerated in a concentration camp, ending up in Tule Lake, California. Dr. Shirasu’s mother and his siblings were also held there. When they returned to Hawai‘i, his father was assigned as the head priest of Olaa Hongwanji (now Puna Hongwanji) in Hawai‘i.
Myron attended Olaa Elementary and Intermediate Schools in Kea‘au, then Hilo High School. After graduation, he attended the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. Originally, he intended to become to become a dentist and enrolled at the University of Oregon. To make ends meet, he worked part-time as a hospital orderly in Eugene, where a physician urged him to go to med school. Consequently, Dr. Shirasu had to decide between dental school and medical school. He was accepted at both schools, but the medical school responded first, making his decision for him. He studied at the medical school in Portland for five years.
While there, he faced cruel racial discrimination. Looking back, he believes he made the correct decision.
He returned to Honolulu, and completed his internship and residency at Queen’s Hospital. He joined Central Medical Clinic in Honolulu in 1967, where he continues to practice at age 89.
Many of my older patients prefer my oldschool treatment. They like it when I take time to explain things in a way they can understand. They don’t want to be rushed in and out.”
Dr. Shirasu makes the hospital rounds—without charge. Currently, hospital rounds are done by specialists referred to as hospitalists. He says, “My patients look forward to and appreciate my visits. I believe they rest and sleep better after my visits. The old-time bedside manner ensures a quicker recovery. But most of the younger doctors don’t make hospital rounds nowadays.”
“In the past, medical school concentrated on science courses,” he says. “Now, pre-med education has broadened to produce well-rounded professionals, preparing doctors who will treat patients as a whole human being. The physician must be knowledgeable of the social aspects of the patient as well as the physical makeup.”
“I have been asked to join other clinics, but Central Medical Clinic has been very accommodating, very professional in their treatment of patients and most importantly, the doctors there have wonderful bedside manners,” he says. “I suppose you can teach new doctors bedside manners, but I think they are inborn—from the heart.” His inherent, heartfelt approach continues to help patients feel valued, reduces their anxiety and improves overall treatment outcomes.
Dr. Shirasu says, “At my age, I don’t have to treat patients anymore. Treating patients is not a job. I enjoy it. I have no regrets becoming a doctor. All my patients are like family to me. Being a doctor is the best profession there is because you are always helping people.”
Experience may help develop intuition and that intuition just might prove to be more effective when diagnosing a patient’s illness than cold technology. Human insight in this AI-infested world may detect the essence and spirit of a patient that technology alone is incapable of understanding. Dr. Myron E. Shirasu, in his early 90s, has treated…
Children process and experience grief according to their developmental stage. If we try to determine their grief status by an adult measure, then something may be missed.
Grieving kids can experience a wide range of emotions, expressing sorrow through tears one moment and wanting to play the next. From an adult lens, this can be perceived as the child being “fine,” but in actuality, playing is one way they process their emotions. Another indicator of grief in children may be a regression in behaviors. The child may have a consistent developmental skill, then suddenly, they are no longer exhibiting their typical abilities. For example, a child may have independent toileting skills, then they begin to have bathroom accidents. This can be frustrating for a parent or the child’s caregiver, especially if they are unaware of the root cause. Healthy support includes talking story with them using simple words about their feelings, allowing them to cry, assuring them that what they are going through is normal and modeling healthy coping skills.
Good conversation starters may include encouraging the child to draw their emotions, reading through a children’s grief book or discussing a movie. Disney movies have many threads of grief sewn through their storylines.
Addressing grief can be uncomfortable, but it does not have to be overwhelming.
Children process and experience grief according to their developmental stage. If we try to determine their grief status by an adult measure, then something may be missed. Grieving kids can experience a wide range of emotions, expressing sorrow through tears one moment and wanting to play the next. From an adult lens, this can be…
