Part 3: Naming & Stating The Problem - Ho'oponopono

Part 3: Naming & Stating the Problem is known as kūkulu kumuhana, defined by Aunty Mary Kawena Puku’i as, “the pooling of thoughts and prayers to solve common problems”. This is an important piece the haku supports for framing the discussion, but, importantly, to offer heartfelt insights and to establish a shared purpose and understanding of why the group or partners are gathering in this space.

Transcript

Part three,

Naming,

Stating the problem.

This is part of a six-part series on hoʻoponopono,

A Native Hawaiian practice.

In parts one and two,

We identified agreements and set our intentions by offering prayers and asking for support for every individual.

The haku helped us come to a collective and spiritual balance and shared purpose for our time together.

We know now and have statements that will allow us to remember what it is that we need to persevere through this expected challenging conversation.

Next,

The haku or spiritual facilitator helps us to name or state the problem.

Once the haku or elder senses that their group has made clear agreements and is settled spiritually,

The haku will then clearly state why the hoʻoponopono was called by naming the source of the problem.

This is known as kokulu kumu hana,

Defined by Auntie Mary Kawena Pukui as,

Quote,

The pooling of thoughts and prayers to solve common problems,

End quote.

When we pool our thoughts and prayers,

We come together as one.

And this is an important piece for framing the entire discussion that is to be had.

Importantly,

This is to offer heartfelt insights and to establish a shared purpose and understanding of why the group or partners are gathering in this space.

Once the haku is able to clearly name the problem,

Then the group can move forward.

I will offer a set of questions for individual reflection,

And I encourage you to meet with the haku to gather your thoughts and to share.

Once you have named your shared purpose,

Openly name the problem and state the problem without judgment.

For example,

We are holding a space in this moment to address our care and concern for person X and for person Y,

Both cherished members of our group.

We notice that there is pain and anguish and we want to release it so we are free from it.

What insights do you have for personal and individual reflection that will allow you to without judgment name the problem that you are confronted with?

Thank you.