I applaud Gordon Arakaki’s “stew” analogy with regard to Hawaii’s multiculturalism (“America could use helping of Hawaii’s unique cultural stew,” Star-Advertiser, Island Voices, June 3). We retain our tastes while sharing with others. That aloha is to be shared.

It’s concerning that so many are drinking the toxic Kool-Aid, both red and blue. “Insurrection” and “stop the steal” are two polarizing attitudes that assume conflict, unnecessarily. Some are effectively feeding us that manufactured conflict.

A more positive approach to addressing our personal, family and societal conflicts is taught as a basic aikido concept: the art of peace. A more honest and genuine discussion is possible.

Taking our self-limiting egotistical view of “us versus them” out of the social analysis would enable true problem-solving. Replacing the knee-jerk reaction of objection with inquiry for understanding is a necessary first step of the creative problem solving process.

Mr. Arakaki’s “cultural stew” analogy should be shared and expanded when consuming headlines.

Michael Curtis

Koloa, Kauai

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