This week we were scheduled to be vacationing in Maui. Then the unthinkable happened. The entire town of Lahaina was destroyed by a raging fire fueled by fierce winds.
Technically, we could have traveled to Maui. But it didn’t seem prudent. Or respectful. Our travel agent agreed. And, of course, the residents of Maui were asking tourists not to come. So here we are on the island of Moloka‘i.
However, yesterday I learned that Hawaiian Airlines is promoting a special from LAX for only $82. Their web page urges people to visit Maui to support their economy.
In addition I’m learning that the Hawaii Tourism Authority is encouraging travelers to visit other areas of Maui.
According to an NPR report “Many longtime locals are also still feeling conflicted” about tourists returning. If you come, “Stay out of Lahaina, this isn’t a sightseeing place right now,” says Bully Kotter, who lost everything he owns in the Aug. 8 fires. “This place is devastated and it’s not very sensitive, thinking about all these people and all the trauma they’ve gone through.”
Various other outlets are urging people to return and support Maui. While there is a difference of opinion about resuming tourism, there is this consensus–Be respectful of the tragedy they’ve endured.
Interestingly, here on Moloka‘i the locals have resisted big companies who want to make this a tourist destination. The natives like their island the way it is. It’s almost, with the exception of technology, a throwback to the 1950’s. They don’t care for tourists here, but they welcome visitors. People who will respect their lifestyle. Who are not complaining that the island is not like Ohau. Who are not anticipating and demanding luxurious amenities. And people who are genuinely interested in them, their history, and their way of life.
Respect. It’s the key to getting along in all relationships. Respecting people’s opinions. Respecting their decisions, even if we disagree. And respecting differences.
Yesterday, I enjoyed an extended conversion with a local man, Curtis, a 73 year old retired educator and football coach, who was born and raised here. I soon realized, although we’re from vastly different backgrounds, we shared similar feelings. He expressed his concern about the political divide in our country and the lack of civility. He shook his head wondering, “What is to become of us?”
Disciples of Christ ought to be setting an example of respecting others. Even those with whom we may have social, cultural, political or religious differences. Isn’t that the essence of following “The Golden Rule” (Matt. 7:12) and obeying the Second Great Commandment (Matt. 22:39)? Treat others the way you want to be treated. And love your neighbor as yourself.
Among brethren there is too often a lack of respect for differences that arise. Many of these have nothing to do with doctrine, but are opinions and matters of expediency. Every congregation has its own culture. Its own method of operation. Its own format for the work and worship of the local church. No, I’m not justifying unscriptural activities, but merely means and methods employed to accomplish scriptural objectives.
We have visited churches from Hawaii to Maine. From Florida to Washington. And from Aruba to Canada to Italy. Good brethren sincerely seeking to follow the New Testament pattern, may not do things exactly like they do in Athens, Alabama. Or Dallas, Texas. Or Chillicothe, Ohio.
Finally, as our propensity for partisan politics heats up in the United States, let God’s people respect conscientious differences that others may hold about candidates, parties, positions, and policies.
Finally, these two thoughts: (1) Respect is the first step toward civility. (2) You will never have to apologize for respectful behavior.
–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman
