Ho’oponopono

Ho’oponopono (ho-o-pono-pono) is an ancient Hawaiian practice of reconciliation and forgiveness. Some Ho’oponopono practitioners believe that harmony can be restored with confession and apology.

Life is better, we can move forward more easily, and our hearts are lighter when we forgive. I am still working on the total forgiveness practice, but I am consciously moving toward that goal. Understanding Ho’oponopono is a step in the right direction on my journey.

My sister and brother, and their families, live on the Big Island of Hawaii. My father is buried there. I have a long history of extensive travel to Hawaii, and feel like Kona is my third home. While most of us might think that Ho’oponopono is a difficult word to say, and an alien concept to grasp, island residents that are ambassadors of aloha use the word and live the practice.

The next time that you are working to resolve conflict, whether on the job or at home or in your community, think Ho’oponopono and consider reconciling the conflict and forgiving the assailant. If your technical approver does not make his deadline, think about how to move forward to achieve approval… and step away from the anger that might be your more typical response. Acknowledge the regression, communicate accountability, and then forgive and reconcile!

My sister always begins her meals with “Thank you thank you thank you, I love you I love you I love you.”  I admire this consistent gratitude practice.

I have also understood Ho’oponopono to be articulated as “I’m sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you. I love you.”

Practice aloha, and consider Ho’oponopono for your next conflict resolution.