Mauna Kea: Is 'both/and' possible?
Seems the issue about a 30 meter telescope on Mauna Kea is not about which side is more ‘right’, but how we create environments that foster inclusion, and a genuine curiosity and interest in why each side believes their worldview is the ‘right’ one.
On the one side, we have those in support of technology. Their quest plays out against the backdrop that fifty years ago science put a man on the moon: ‘One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Perhaps the scientists' belief that the new 30 meter telescope on Mauna Kea as a way to expand our knowledge and understanding of what is out there, is worthy of our attention.
On the other hand, coincidentally, recently PBS also aired a program on how aloha and love of the aina made old Lahaina a wonderful place to live. With sugar cane, missionaries and whaling ships these old ways eroded. With this legacy comes both resentment and perhaps guilt and shame. The Hawaiians of Lahaina, like those protecting Mauna Kea, remind us that the mountain is sacred. The aina sustains us. Protects us. Their spiritual connection to the aina and the invisible invites us to remember we are part of the web of life.
Despite the difference in focus of the scientists and the Hawaiians, both sides value Mauna Kea. Perhaps through deep listening, being respectful and sharing what they envision for Mauna Kea we can move forward and allow a yet unknown new story to emerge.
The Hawaiians have ho’oponopono: this practice of reconciliation and forgiveness corrects what is not working in a community. The scientific community has Peter Senge’s Systems Theory which includes ‘Dia’ -Greek for ‘through’ and ‘Logos’ Greek for ‘speak. By using these tools and taking the time to listen and share perhaps the crisis on Mauna Kea can set an example.
I am reminded that the Chinese letters for crisis translate as opportunity. Perhaps this crisis is an opportunity for both sides and everyone involved, to find a ‘both/ and’ solution. Perhaps it is our kuleana to let go of 'either/or' options and step into a new story beyond dualistic ‘either/ or’ thinking, blaming and shaming, being condescending or entitled and find a way to do what is highest and best for all. Perhaps both sides are right. Perhaps there is a way for everyone to win.
The Hawaiians have ho’oponopono: this practice of reconciliation and forgiveness corrects what is not working in a community. The scientific community has Peter Senge’s Systems Theory which includes ‘Dia’ -Greek for ‘through’ and ‘Logos’ Greek for ‘speak. By using these tools and taking the time to listen and share perhaps the crisis on Mauna Kea can set an example.
I am reminded that the Chinese letters for crisis translate as opportunity. Perhaps this crisis is an opportunity for both sides and everyone involved, to find a ‘both/ and’ solution. Perhaps it is our kuleana to let go of 'either/or' options and step into a new story beyond dualistic ‘either/ or’ thinking, blaming and shaming, being condescending or entitled and find a way to do what is highest and best for all. Perhaps both sides are right. Perhaps there is a way for everyone to win.
