01-07-2014, 06:03 PM
I find it frustrating that these extreme labels get tossed out to describe everyday, normal interaction in societies. People are less trusting of others they do not know, by nature. That's anywhere you go. We happen to be in Hawai'i. It's natural to assume that in moving to Hawai'i, mainlanders (or 'outsiders' from any place..) are ready, willing and even excited to embrace all things Hawaiian, including the culture and people. That does not mean those that have had roots here for generations are ready to accept people foreign to them. It's understandable that giving trust to 'outsiders' will come with some hesitation, and that dues would need to be paid by each individual. Even if those dues are only to prove that one has moved here with respect and love of the land, culture, and people that have been here for generations. This isn't hard to do. Like Bananahead points out: look people in the eyes, smile and speak to them lke they're human beings. Show respect and love for everybody, including locals. Sure, some will be more hesitant to accept you or me at first take, and at times we may be met with a cold shoulder, but this happens in every community with new-comers. It's nothing new. And it isn't isolated to Hawai'i, for SURE! olutely