The Aloha Games Triumph #TeamAloha
I’m bursting with pride right now. Another exhilarating Aloha Games has come and gone, leaving us with memories of incredible moments and a profound sense of accomplishment. When I reflect on how much effort goes into planning an event of this magnitude and all the moving pieces that must seamlessly come together, I'm still in disbelief that we pulled it off. But let me tell you, that's not what makes me the proudest today.
The Spirit of Aloha
My heart swells with pride when I think about Team Aloha. It's not just about podium finishes or making it to the top 10. What truly sets us apart is that we embody the spirit of Aloha. You've probably heard the old adage, "it's not about winning or losing, it's about how you play the game." It might sound outdated, especially in a world that places a premium on winning.
Life as a Series of Games
But consider this: life is an endless series of games. Think about it—posting something on social media, climbing the corporate ladder, becoming a parent, creating art, or even participating in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. We're all part of different games, whether we choose them or not. Some are more important to us than others, and each comes with its own set of rules. The more significant the game is to us, the harder we strive to excel in it.
The beauty and challenge of life is that we humans are remarkably adept at inventing new games. We engage in hundreds, if not thousands, of games throughout our lives, presenting an incredible opportunity to become world-class at something. Some games are easily mastered, while others demand a lifetime of dedication. But even mastery doesn't guarantee that we'll remain at the top. And sometimes, society collectively loses interest in a game. Just think about NBA MVPs versus NES Tetris World Record Holders...how many of each can you remember?
The Importance of Sportsmanship
One universal truth is that no one enjoys playing with a sore loser or someone willing to win "at all costs." What truly matters is how we conduct ourselves, ensuring that we're always welcome to play. Tim Tebow might not have been deemed "good enough" for the NFL, but many people still want him on their "team."
This is precisely why I am bursting with pride for Team Aloha today. Many of us trained tirelessly for this competition, and there were certainly moments of disappointment. I'm sure some instances felt unfair, ones that better planning and execution could have prevented. However, none of these obstacles deterred Team Aloha from being incredibly warm, welcoming, and competent hosts to our esteemed guests. And for that, I'm profoundly grateful and proud to be part of this group of individuals who excel in the right games.
