Mahalo

Mahalo is a Hawaiian word that according to Wikipedia means "thanks, gratitude, admiration, praise, esteem, regards, respects." It is often used as a simple substitute for the English "Thank you," but as with "Aloha," that simple substitution isn't the whole story.

In fact, some sources suggest that the meanings "thanks" and "gratitude" were appended after contact; early visitors noted that while the Hawaiian people were generous and grateful, they had no word to express gratitude or say 'thank you.'

When you think about it, this is very cool. I remember reading somewhere (probably in a science fiction novel) that gratitude is a species of resentment, and that makes sense. In our culture it's good that we feel and express gratitude; our culture has a transactional basis, and when we give anything (even a gift), we expect a return (if only a "thank you"). We even exchange favors, and don't see that as particularly strange. But in Hawaiian culture (as I understand it), it's less about commerce and more about community.

The Hawaiian culture had a subsistence economy; there were enough resources to go around, but not so much that the accumulation of wealth was particularly practical or desirable. In order for the community to prosper, everyone had to contribute and everyone got to benefit. It was less about "Mine mine mine," and more about "Ours."

Wouldn't it be wonderful if we weren't so caught up in keeping score; in an economic model of human interaction? Do we truly "give" if we expect or require a return, even so intangible a one as thanks or gratitude?

What would it be like if the cultural expectation--the "norm," if you will--was thoughtless, automatic generosity and admiration for one another? What if we didn't need to say "Thank you," because our admiration, praise, esteem, and regard were part of the fabric of society: evident without any need to say it? What if the spirit of Mahalo infused our daily relationships? What would that look like?

I hope you've found reading what I've written here worthwhile.

Mahalo.

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