I could not believe Mrs. Anderson, my third grade teacher did not choose me to Hula Dance to "Mele- Kaleki-Maka" for the Christmas program! April, Gaye, Kathy as well as my friend Katie were chosen, along with I think 2 or 3 other girls (?), because of their very coordinated and fabulously danced Hulas. They were also going to get to wear little bikini tops (really? I guess that was not really a big deal in 1971) with lays and grass skirts for heck sakes. I remember being seriously surprised that I was overlooked, and because I was full of confidence and of course full of myself I set out to show my expert "hula" every chance I got. I practiced at recess, in the hall, and at every moment I thought Mrs. Anderson might notice me. I remember thinking that once she saw me she would absolutely realize her mistake in not choosing me! She did notice me, thankfully, as I swayed like a born Hawaiian one day in the hall. What a kindness she did me to acknowledge and graciously invite me to join in the dance, not at all because I was a good dancer- but because of my exuberance. She seemed to be easily delighted and willing to be kind at every opportunity. I have known a lot of people like that and it's funny how many of them are teachers from my elementary school days. Mrs. Carr, Mrs. Anderson, Mrs. Nelson were complete darlings. Mrs. Nelson even had parties at her house for us which included being able to hike up the "H" rock behind her house.
Happily, thanks to Mrs. Anderson, that's what I think about whenever I hear Bing croon"Mele Kaleki Maka".
It's like the message from "It's A Wonderful Life" about how we all influence each other in small but meaningful ways. I'm thankful for good people throughout my life who have influenced me for good by sharing kindnesses and by just being who they are. It makes me want to try harder to not let a chance for acknowledging someone in kindess pass me by.
