July 15, 2012
This little girl is probably about 4 years old. She and her brother were here with their Mom participating in a new program at the Polynesian Cultural Center designed for Japanese families. They went all around the Center and participated in several different activities, and while her brother looked like he was having lots of fun, she appeared shy and even a little sad.
At the last workshop, she struggled to weave her headband, but chased away her Mom when she tried to help her.
Islands Director Steve La’ulu walked over and sat right next to her. He put his arms around her and helped her weave her headband, all the while speaking to her in English, as if she could understand every word. She let him guide her hands and looked up into his face with the biggest smile!
After her headband was done, she wandered over to me and showed me her handiwork. I praised her for doing such a great job, then pointed at Steve La’ulu who was also serving as a Bishop at the time and asked if she knew who he was. Without skipping a beat, and in a very matter-of-fact way, she said:
“That guy? That’s my friend!”
A warm smile, a kind word and a helping hand transcends all language barriers and touches the heart. 🙂
I am so grateful to work at the Polynesian Cultural Center with so many wonderful examples.
Jimmy Mapu is the beloved Governor of the Polynesian Cultural Center, a title earned through decades of dedicated service and genuine care for people. He currently serves as Director of Guest Services, where he provides steady leadership and mentorship to the Center’s tour guides and frontline employees who bring Polynesian culture to life each day.
Known for his warmth, humor, and gift for storytelling, Jimmy’s reflections speak not only to guests but especially to the employees he leads—capturing the heart, history, and values that define the Polynesian Cultural Center.
