• Editor’s note: This is the eighth in a series of columns discussing leadership on Kaua‘i — a place where leaders discuss the qualities and expectations of leadership specific to the Garden Island. In June I spent time with former
• Editor’s note: This is the eighth in a series of columns discussing leadership on Kaua‘i — a place where leaders discuss the qualities and expectations of leadership specific to the Garden Island.
In June I spent time with former Governor George Ariyoshi and his wife Jean after their presentation at the Leadership Kaua‘i Adult Program graduation ceremony. One of the greatest gifts I received from them were their ideas of what I call a “common-sense” government leadership from a bygone era.
The former Governor talked about five basic concepts: Know and understand your vision/goals; slow but steady progress,; acknowledge the warning signs; save and prepare for a rainy day and don’t allow distractions to inhibit your decisions.
I’m not pretending to know all the intricacies of Governor Ariyoshi’s political career. Nor is it my intention to convince you that the “old ways” are better. But accompany me on this symbolic journey and you decide.
After their visit, my mind was unsettled with the disparity between these concepts of leadership from yesteryear versus a more familiar style from my generation that encourages “the fast pace, use-it-or-lose-it then move on to the next” type of practices. So I did what I thought was best and headed up the river on my standup paddleboard.
I hadn’t paddled in a while and forgot many important things. I’d forgotten how gracefully the board dances through the water at a slow and steady pace. I’d forgotten that when the makani blows far ahead in the distance, it sends you fair warning of its approach by the ripples in the water and the rustling of leaves in the trees. I’d forgotten that if you heed these messages you will know exactly when to steady yourself and when you can ease up. I’d forgotten the struggle against the unrelenting wind and feeling like you’re going nowhere. I’d forgotten that by properly allocating your resource of power, you will eventually make it to the turn-around point. I’d forgotten the feeling of elation at that point when the wind is at your back, pushing you forward and faster whether you agreed to it or not. I’d forgotten the temptation of “picking up the pace” on this downwind ride because life was good, but in fact, this was the time to reserve energy so battling upwind through a second lap won’t be so difficult. I had forgotten that being steadfast would insure a strong finish, in the same graceful way that your board was able to dance at the start of your journey.
The symbolism in my paddling experience made me realize how easy it is to set aside common-sense practices when society’s expectations of a bottom-line and destination, rather than the process and journey, are knocking at life’s door. I remember now, clearer than ever, the importance of bridging generations and learning from the wisdom of our elders in order to plan for a better tomorrow.
Have you spent time with a kapuna today? You might learn something.
• Brenda Jose is program director for Leadership Kaua‘i.
