Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 33, Number 7, 1 July 2016 — CRUM, DOUGLAS E. [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

CRUM, DOUGLAS E.

>► Q1 RESPONSE: We must eelucate Hawaiians to better take care of their physical health by completing any f necessary meelieal regime including ' medication, meal planning, and exercise as well as by continuing visits to their physician or physician's assistant. Mental health is only found through happiness. Unless basic needs are satisfied, one cannot

feel whole. No Hawaiian should be without shelter to sleep, food to eat, clothes to wear and self-esteem through gainful employment. Spiritual heahh is based in cultural beliefs. Hawaiian cultural beliefs are being slowly eroded by technology that captures the attention of our younger generations and distracts them (lures them away?) from our traditional values. It is paramount that we find ways to interest and educate our youth in the spiritual guidance provided by our heritage. If we fail so does our tradition, our culture and our heritage. >► Q2 RESPONSE: No Nation ean build, grow or survive without solidarity. Last count there were over 60 groups that claimed the number 1 spot representing Hawaiians. With this continuing division and eompehhon for lst plaee, a Hawaiian Nation will never exist. At some point humility must prevail and solidarity take plaee. Eventually we must set aside personal agendas and create forums of peaee, unity and spiritual guidance. At these forums every problem or complaint presented must include answers or solutions as well. When that happens with positive forward united thinking, a nahon begins and grows. >► Q3 RESPONSE The current voyage of the Hōkūle'a across Earth's oceans is an example on our continuing effort to join and grow the global movement toward a more sustainable world with an eye on climate change and the environment. Health and wealth disparities typically arise from a laek of knowledge. Leadership must help to educate our people in hnaneial matters and healthy food lifestyles. Neither of these is adequately addressed in our current edueahon system. We must develop better programs for them and make these programs readily available. Personal health is measured in quality of life. Helping people find their selfworth is paramount. ■