The Leader
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Learn about President Nelson’s time in the military
I s s u e 2 . Vo l u m e 1 2 7 . O c t o b e r 2 0 2 0
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The highlights from October 2020’s General Conference
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Having your voice heard in local politics and elections S E P T. 2020
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October 2020 • VOLUME 127 • ISSUE 2
LeeAnn Lambert
Haeley van der Werf
ADVISOR
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Bruno Maynez ART DIRECTOR
Michael Kraft
Eli Hadley
Carlene Coombs
Sadie Madriaga
COPY EDITOR
COPY EDITOR
COPY EDITOR
ART & GRAPHICS
Hannah Manalang
Emily Cassler
ART & GRAPHICS
MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
Serena Dugar Ioane MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
Kimo Burgess
Brooke Guryn
Alexander Tumalip
MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
Greg Tivles MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
Lisi Tiafau
Jeffery Dang
Cody Bruce Barney
MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
MULTIMEDIA JOURNALIST
VIDEOGRAPHER
VIDEOGRAPHER
Ho Yin Li K E A L A K A’ I
Hailey Huhane
McKenzie Connell
PHOTOGRAPHER 2
Emmalee Smith MANAGING EDITOR
Letter
from a copy editor In the past few months, I’ve thought about what it means to be patriotic. This year, I have seen so many examples of how the misdeeds of the past impact both the present and the future. To me, being a patriot means understanding the good and bad of the past in order to make a better future for ourselves and our posterity. Learning from but not dwelling on the past is the key to a bright future. With the gift of being free agents in this life, we all have a say in making changes, both large and small (pg. 36). There is a saying, “no man is an island.” I believe the same is true for all the nations of the world. Seeing myself as not just an American citizen, but a citizen of the world and a citizen of my Creator’s family has reminded me of the importance of respecting others’ rights to serve the cause they believe to be just. Just as President Nelson served in the United State’s military (pg. 10), current BYU–Hawaii students have served in their countries’ militaries out of a sense of duty to their homelands (pg. 32). Mainland students at BYUH are given the unique opportunity to attend a school where they can understand how people of other countries view their nation and its politics (pg. 54) and learn how other governments function (pg. 56). I now think of myself as a human being first and an American second. Understanding one another is the key to looking past the physical walls and borders to see fellow human beings, brothers and sisters in Christ. My duty to God, I feel, extends far beyond any duty to my country I might have. Despite having loyalty to separate countries, BYUH students share a common duty to God. Regardless of nationality, our student body has shown their dedication to God through service (pg. 26), and by using their freedom of choice to believe in the truth of the gospel (pg. 28). As elections approach and the worldwide pandemic continues, I hope all our students can exercise their freedom of choice righteously as our student body and the world undergoes more of 2020’s trials.
NEWS CENTER
BOX 1920 BYUH LAIE, HI 96762 Pr int Ser vices Editorial, photo submissions & Distribution inquiries: k e a l a k a i @ by u h . e d u . To s u b s c r i b e t o t h e R S S F E E D or to view additional ar ticles,go to k e a l a k a i . by u h . e d u
CONTACT
Email: kealakai@byuh.edu Phone: (808) 675-3694 Fax: (808) 675-3491 Office: BYU–Hawaii Aloha Center 134
Eli Hadley - Copy Editor
ON THE COVER:
President Russell M. Nelson walks to the Conference Center Theater with his wife Wendy Nelson for the 190th Semiannual General Conference, which was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
ABOUT US The Ke Alaka‘i began publishing the same year the university, then called Church College of Hawaii, opened. It has continued printing for more than 60 years. The name means “the leader” in Hawaiian. It began as a monthly newsletter, evolved into a weekly newspaper, then a weekly magazine, and is now a monthly news magazine with a website and a social media presence. Today a staff of about 16 students work to provide information for BYU–Hawaii’s campus ohana and Laie’s community. © 2020 Ke Alaka’i BYU–Hawaii All Rights Reserved S E P T. 2020
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Contents Campus and Community
Art submission 6 Campus Comment 7 Genuine Gold: Joyce Tan 12
Joyce Tan and her husband, Peter Chan, are both former BYUH faculty members. Photo provided by Joyce Tan
Duty to God
10 President Nelson’s military career 12 Blessing of the temple 14 Steve Tueller: A spiritual leader
President Russell M. Nelson served in the U.S. Army. Photo provided by ChurchofJesusChrist.org
18 The Lord will prepare a way 20 Balancing religious beliefs and voting 22 Church at home 24 Love at first sight 26 Missionaries do free service 28 How did you know the Church is true? 30 General Conference highlights 4
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October: Our Duty
As it is an election year, the Ke Alaka’i staff wanted to highlight the importance of being involved in your community and nation. Every person has a duty to make the world a better place, whether it is through service or voting. Despite people’s political differences, we want to emphasize that our duty to our Heavenly Father can help us heed the words of the prophets who called for love and peace in turbulent times.
Duty to Country
BYUH student Gavin Tan is pictured with fellow soldiers in the Singapore military. Photo provided by Galvin Tan
Why I serve
32
How to register to vote
35
Voting 101
36
Student’s thoughts on candidates
38
Fighting the good fight
40
A climate in crisis
42
Edmond Saksak: Ambassador for peace
44
Graphic by Esther Insigne
48 Importance of local elections
Graphic by Sadie Madriaga
50 Serving home from BYUH 54 International students’ views on U.S. politics 56 Opening the Chapel 58 Importance of diversity in government
S E P T. 2020
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C RE AT I V E W RI T I NG/ART/P HOTO SUBMISSIO N “Julia” by Lynne Hardy, an alumna from Arizona
Share your art, photos, or creative writing with us and we may feature it in our next issue. E-mail us your high-resolution photo or work with a caption at kealakai@byuh.edu
F O L LO W U S AR O UND THE WE B
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Campus Comment: What do you think makes someone a good citizen? BY HAILEY HUHANE
Damon Kumar, a recent graduate from Fiji said, “Being a good citizen is being responsible - not only for our own people but also taking care of the environment. Just picking up trash and putting it in a bin comes back to being a good citizen.”
Reymart Santiago, a junior from the Philippines majoring in business management, said, “I think a good citizen follows all of the laws of the land. I especially think it’s important to be good to other people.”
Skyler Rasmussen, a sophomore from California majoring in computer science, said, “I think someone who is a good citizen is someone who is involved to the best of their ability. Someone who reaches out to help others in their community and tries to be a positive force the best they can. Some have opportunities to do more than others, but as long as we’re trying our best to reach out to serve others and make a small difference here or there, to me that makes a good citizen.”
Lazr Lugo, a senior from the Philippines majoring in information technology, said, “If you respect the law and are a good law-abiding citizen, then that makes you a good citizen.”
Daniel Vi, a junior from Washington majoring in accounting, said, “A good citizen is a law-abiding citizen who is active in their community. Someone who is trying to better their community makes for a good citizen.”
S E P T. 2020
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Genuine Gold
Joyce Tan BY SERENA DUGAR IOANE
Joyce Tan, an alumna and former faculty at BYUH, is helping develop BYU-Pathway as part of her doctorate study. She said her husband and her want to be financial donors of BYUH in the future.
Top, 8 KaE photo A L A K A’of I the Chan family graduating from BYUH. Above, Joyce Tan and Peter Chan now. Tan said she made a covenant with God to serve Him if He helped get to BYUH. Photos provided by Joyce Tan
When did you attend BYUH?
“I attended BYUH from 1992 to 1995. I met my husband Peter Chan and had our first child at BYUH. I majored in TESOL and secondary education and minored in PE coaching because I love sports. I used to play tennis and [run] cross country for BYUH.”
What was your career and educational journey after BYUH?
“I am from Singapore, and my husband is from Hong Kong. After graduation, we went to Hong Kong. ... I started to work as a paraprofessional at American International School. “After two years, my husband got into BYU in Provo’s instructional psychology and technology program. In the future, we wanted to build a school, so I got my
What advice would you give to students at BYUH?
“Don’t be in your first-language bubble rooming, eating, working with the same nationalities. Instead mingle with others and improve your English. “Build your career from your college years. When you are a freshman, it is okay to do hard labors, but do not do that for four years. In your junior and senior years, do major-related work and obtain marketable skills in your chosen field. In my junior year, I worked as a
What special memories do you have from BYUH? “We are both from humble backgrounds. My parents borrowed money to buy a one-way air ticket to send me to BYUH, and after that, no financial support. I was on my own and learned to work hard. “When I was a student, I created an American Sign Language club because of my two student schoolmates. Peter and I still hold it sacred in our hearts the mission statement of BYUH and try to be leaders for good internationally.”
tutor and learned many tangible skills. I was also one of the pioneer students who did an internship in Western Samoa in the TESOL Education program where we helped one Chinese lady to come to the gospel. “I would also advise to never forget your main goal. Study hard first then work hard and play hard, which means have a healthy social life participating in clubs, wards and school activities.”
How did attending BYUH build your testimony?
“I am a convert from a humble background. I saved up my own mission contribution for five years by being very frugal. When I came back from my mission, I did not have any money to go to school. “I made a covenant with God if He helps me to go to BYUH, I will serve Him for the rest of my life. I kept that promise. This gospel gives me so much hope. Through higher education, we can pull ourselves from generational poverty.”
What are your future goals?
“In the future, we want to be donors of BYUH to help students finish their degrees without financial burden. We have been given much, so we are striving to serve and be courageous instruments in God’s hands. The Lord blessed me
with master teachers to mold me to be a better teacher. We have extensive network connections with educators in China. “Our goal is to use our talents, abilities, and connections to serve our Chinese people in the near future when we retire and go on our missions.”
master’s degree in education leadership. “We both were hired as faculty at BYUH and worked there from 2002 to 2008, where we learned many important things. It prepared us to help establish international schools in China. Now we have two schools in Utah, where we recruit international high school students to study.”
What blessings have you seen from BYUH?
“We built wonderful friendships and developed love for cultures from our student and faculty years at BYUH. We are still in contact with some of our friends and students. I used to teach all levels of EIL classes and Book of Mormon classes. Those were great years of touching many lives. I see working at BYUH as a humbling and sacred calling.”
How do you help develop BYU Pathway?
“I wanted to do my doctorate degree and was wondering what I should study. I remembered how much I wanted to help develop the BYU-Pathway program. Then I was accepted into two different schools including BYU. I prayed and felt that I have to choose Johns Hopkins. “Currently, I am pursuing a doctorate degree online via Johns Hopkins University focusing on helping BYUPathway Worldwide international students improve their English language proficiency skills. “It’s been a very academically rigorous albeit supportive nurturing online environment. For now, I am not holding any position at BYU-Pathway, but it is just my little payback time.”
Graphics by Sadie Madriaga S E P T. 2020
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Duty to God
Fortifying faith While serving in the Korean War, President Russell M. Nelson encountered individuals whose examples, he said, carried him through the war and fortified his faith in God BY HAILEY HUHANE In her book, “Insights From A Prophet’s Life,” author Sheri Dew recounts President Nelson’s service in the Korean War and the moments that led to his decision to serve in the military. In 1951, as the Korean War continued, President Russell M. Nelson’s career as a heart surgeon was reaching new peaks. His pioneering efforts in heart surgery and invention of a compact heart and lung machine allowed the first openheart operation on a human being, Dew explained in her book. The U.S. Army’s need for doctors increased during the war, and Nelson took it upon himself to enlist in the Army. Soon after enlisting, Nelson received orders to report to Asia, first to Japan and then to Korea, where he became part of a four-man surgical research team member. In an interview with Heidi Greenberg at the University of Utah in 2015, he said, “I went into the Army in March, and in June I went over to Korea and started out right at the front lines, at the battlefront where cannons were firing.” Nelson and his fellow researchers visited every M.A.S.H. (Mobile Army Surgical Hospital) unit on the Korean Peninsula. Though faced with challenging circumstances, President Nelson said he was touched by his interactions with his fellow comrades. He found strength in those he served beside and was blessed with spiritual experiences that shaped him and strengthened his faith in God. 10
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President Russell M. Nelson served in the U. S. Army for two years. Photos courtesy of ChurchofJesusChrist.org
“Don’t worry about me, Brother Nelson, for I know why I was sent to the earth - to gain experiences and work out my salvation. I can work out my salvation with my mind and not with my legs.” -A Latter-day Saint and soldier
One instance took place when the M.A.S.H. unit Nelson was assigned to came under attack. Dew explained in her book that Nelson and Dr. Fiorindo Simeone spent most of their night in a foxhole and prayed together that their lives would be spared. Although the two doctors had different religious beliefs, Dew said, “Their combined faith was a boon to both that stressful night.” On another occasion, Nelson was asked if he would be willing to see a fellow Latter-day Saint young man who had been hit by a bullet in his spine. The young soldier had become paralyzed and would never use his legs again. As Nelson was introduced to the young man, he thought of what to say to offer some words of comfort. Instead, the
words of comfort came to Nelson from the young soldier. The soldier said, “Don’t worry about me, Brother Nelson, for I know why I was sent to the earth - to gain experiences and work out my salvation. I can work out my salvation with my mind and not with my legs.” In his autobiography, “From Heart to Heart,” Nelson said, “The faith of that young man has motivated me ever since.” In the book “Russell M. Nelson: Father, Surgeon, Apostle,” by Spencer Condie, President Nelson tells of when he was given the opportunity to share the gospel while serving in the Army. Nelson worked alongside a nurse named Jane S. Poole at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C. Working closely with him, Poole said she began to
Above, President Nelson is pictured with Korean Ambassador Ahn Ho-Young and his wife, Seon Hwa Lee when Nelson received a medal of honor for his service during the Korean War. Photo by Elder Richard G. Hinckley. Below, Nelson and friends in a MASH unit in Korea pose for a photo.
wonder what set him apart from the other surgeons. One day, Poole asked Nelson what Latter-day Saints believe. “She was like a sponge craving water,” he said. “She wanted to know more and more, so I gradually introduced the doctrine and concepts of the Church and suggested reading materials for her. It wasn’t long before she had converted herself, and I had the privilege of baptizing her.” Poole was a divorced mother with a young son, George, who eventually served a mission in Australia. To this day, Poole has remained strong in the Church and has continued to periodically send the Nelsons thank-you
notes since her baptism more than 50 years ago. Marisa Firth, a senior from Utah studying exercise sports science, said she was unaware of Nelson’s military service, but she said she believed his service helped prepare him for a life of service in the Church. She said serving in the military with people from different backgrounds would teach someone a lot about people and how they work. “You would learn how to become a cooperative team member as well as learn how to communicate efficiently amongst each other. I think that ties into the Church organization - a big group of people coming together with assignments and working together.”
Graphics by Bruno Maynez
Alayna Nichols, a sophomore from California studying graphic design, pointed out the similarities between serving your country and serving God. She said, “I think war and being in the military is a very human experience. We have several examples of warrior prophets in the Book of Mormon as well. “Feeling a sense of duty and defending your cause with obedience and discipline [is] an important aspect of being in the military and also in being a dedicated disciple of Christ who’s willing to serve.” S E P T. 2020
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Blessings of the temple Tongan and Samoan students say their families are overjoyed by the two new temples and their ancestor’s prayers have been answered BY CARLENE COOMBS
Photos from Church Newsroom Pago Pago, American Samoa Temple
BYU–Hawaii students from Tonga and Samoa discussed how new temples announced in their countries brought joy to them and their families because they will make temple attendance easier. The new renderings of the temples, they said, also fit the island lifestyle. “My goal is to save up and go back for the [American Samoa Temple] dedication and be able to see the smiling faces of the people and how blessed they are to be able to have a temple,” said Anna Fogava, a junior from Samoa majoring in hospitality and tourism management. On Aug. 14, the Church Newsroom released the exterior renderings for the Neiafu Tonga and Pago Pago American Samoa temples, which were announced by President Russell M. Nelson during the April 2019 General Conference. Dates for the groundbreaking of the temples have not been set yet. Both temples will be single-story and approximately 17,000 square feet, according to the Church Newsroom. The 12
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Graphic by Bruno Maynez
Pago Pago American Samoa Temple will be the first temple built in American Samoa. Lina Pongi, a sophomore from Tonga majoring in TESOL, said she was in California when they announced the new temple, which will be built on the island where she was raised. “I called my mom and my dad, and everyone started crying and was overjoyed because we finally get to have the temple, and it’s very close. From my grandma’s house, it’s a 2-minute walk, and from our house, it’s less than a 7-minute drive.” Pongi said church members living on Neiafu save money all year to travel to Tongatapu, where the current temple is, and many can only afford to attend the temple once a year. “It’s not an easy thing to travel over to Tongatapu and go to the temple because it’s very expensive to travel from Neiafu,” she said. Nane Kaulave, a junior from Tonga studying social work, said although she is from Tongatapu and has a temple nearby,
Neiafu, Tonga Temple
she has seen the sacrifices members make to travel to and attend the temple. “I don’t feel like [the new temple] would affect us other than making us feel happy for our members and family who are in Neiafu. I’m just glad for them.” Fogava said church members in American Samoa wondered when a temple would be built on their island, but Fogava said she didn’t expect it to happen so soon. “I knew in my heart that one day there would be a temple built [in American Samoa], but I didn’t expect it would be this soon. … That morning when the prophet announced it, I was shocked. But in my heart, I was overjoyed. And at the same time, I was overwhelmed. … I was very emotional that morning.” Fogava, a convert to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for 20 years, said she had learned the temple’s value and importance. “It’s so rewarding to be able to see [the new temple] and be part of something our ancestors … were praying for to happen.”
Rowanne Ajawas, a junior from Samoa majoring in Pacific Island Studies, shared Samoa’s new temple will be a great blessing because the current temple is not big enough for all the members who attend. “[The Apia Samoa Temple] is always packed, and they always have to divide it. And most people aren’t able to make it to sessions. So it is a great blessing.” Ajawas added this new temple will bring an opportunity for Western Samoa members to increase their temple attendance instead of relying on members from American Samoa to fill the temple. Fogava said she initially thought the temple designs looked like an ordinary chapel but quickly realized the simple design fits the islands. “I was looking at [the renderings] for another 10 minutes and changed my perspective and saw [the temple] as it is, the House of the Lord.” Pongi said she likes the new temple’s exterior designs and noted how both temples are similar in design.
“My goal is to save up and go back for the [American Samoa Temple] dedication and be able to see the smiling faces of the people and how blessed they are to be able to have a temple.” -Anna Fogava
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Leading through the Spirit Steve Tueller says serving with Married Student Stake leaders and members has been a blessing By Serena Dugar Ioane
BYU–Hawaii Administrative Vice President Steve Tueller has also served as the Laie Married Student stake president since March 2017. He shared how his calling has helped him to be a better leader and disciple of Jesus Christ. He also shared how he has helped to strengthen his stake through revelations and setting specific goals. The spiritual magnifying the secular Tueller shared being a stake president helps him to magnify his work as a vice president of Administration. “I am aware of the resources the school has to help students – who are also members of my stake,” he said. He noted interactions with student members and their bishops help him understand the challenges and frustrations students have and allows him to help the administration understand how some decisions are not as helpful as they thought they would be. “It is not always easy to change things, but knowing about the problems allows us to try,” Tueller explained. “I think this perspective has helped me contribute as a vice president in ways I may not otherwise be able to.” BYUH Academics Vice President John Bell said, “I met President Tueller almost 14
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Tueller, pictured with his wife, Laurie, said his experience as a stake president helped him as vice president at BYUH too. Photos provided by Steve Tueller
Graphics by Bruno Maynez
six years ago when I first came to work at BYUH. We have worked closely together since that time. He was also my bishop for about a year before becoming the stake president over the Married Student Stake. “From President Tueller, I have learned to always try to do what is right. He is a wonderful example of a principled life,” Bell stated. “I admire him for his firmness and his consistency. He knows how to be firm and compassionate at the same time.” Quoting the Church Handbook, Tueller said, “Being a faithful disciple in order to help others become faithful disciples is the purpose behind every calling in the Church.” He said being a stake president allows him to see people’s faithful efforts in areas within the Church. Tueller explained, “It is inspiring to see how people exercise their faith in Jesus Christ by making sacrifices to serve. Seeing the faith of others grow also helps my own faith grow.”
Tueller, pictured with counselors Maurice Mo’o and David Bybee, who both also work at BYUH, says working with Married Student Stake members, they have been able to increase family history and temple work.
Strengthening Zion’s stake Tueller said he tries to make improvements by setting specific goals. One thing he has done is encourage stake members to memorize “The Living Christ, The Testimony of the Apostles.” He shared many people were able to do it, and those who did not finish at least were able to memorize many essential truths about our Savior. He also shared when members come for temple recommend interviews, they have family history workers with computers ready to help with family history while they wait. “This simple change has helped generate many names for temple ordinances,” he noted. Tueller said he is pleased with the progress they have made in temple and family history work and missionary work among members of the stake. According to Tueller, the number of names submitted to the temple for ordinances from his stake increases each year. “That is really
gratifying since there is so much work to be done in that area.” Merlin Paul Waite, bishop of the Laie Married 4th Ward, said, “President Tueller is one of those kind, humble, and wonderful men. I knew our stake was in good hands when we first met. Since he became the stake president, he has helped our stake members become more temple active and self-reliant.” Tueller shared due to the demographics of his stake, they cannot do much missionary work within the stake boundaries. However, when he learned the Temple Visitors’ Center sisters teach individuals remotely, it gave him the idea to start reaching out via technology to friends and family of the members worldwide. “We are not as good as we are going to get at this yet, but we are much better organized than we have ever been to make this work well,” Tueller said. “I am very enthusiastic about the direction our missionary effort is headed.”
He said his stake has also made some progress in holding consistent self-reliance courses and English Connect courses for the spouses of students who need help learning English. Tueller shared he and his team helped organize the Virtual Bishop’s Storehouse that allows needy members to order food and pick it up at the Laie Hawaii North Stake Center twice each week rather than drive to the Kalihi Storehouse. Leading through revelations Tueller shared he often feels the inspiration of the Holy Ghost as he serves. It has made him realize over and over again this is the Lord’s work, and he is actively directing it. “One of the first impressions I received after being called was that our members needed to get prepared for emergencies,” Tueller said. “Sometimes, Continued on page 16 S E P T. 2020
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these emergencies are felt by everyone, such as hurricane and tsunami warnings, COVID-19, etc. and sometimes they are more individualized, such as illness, difficult pregnancies, etc.” He highlighted the importance of preparedness for emergencies. “Having extra food and other supplies on hand is a great blessing, even if all it does is prevent you from having to stand in line at Costco to buy toilet paper, being prepared is worth it,” he shared. According to Tueller, the main reason he worked to bring a Bishop’s Storehouse to Laie was so his stake members could get a short-term food supply for emergencies. “It is often hard for students to buy enough food to make it week to week. So buying extra food is difficult for them,” he added. “If a disaster comes, we want our members to be prepared and be able to help others if necessary.”
Tueller said the most dramatic revelation for him has come while working with individual members. “I have had some really wonderful experiences feeling the Lord directing me how to seek out and to help specific individuals,” Tueller commented. “I also love the direction I feel when selecting a new bishop to serve. I have found that if I am patient and willing to put in the spiritual work, God will make it very clear whom He has selected to serve.” Lessons from the calling Tueller highlighted he has learned many lessons from his calling. “I could spend the whole day talking about what I have learned from this calling,” he said. “I have learned the Lord yields multiple results from a single transaction. I think most of what He does is designed to bless multiple people at the same time.”
Tueller says with the support of his wife, Laurie and all the others who serve in stake and ward callings, together they have been able to get things done. Photo provided by Steve Tueller 16
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He said God might call someone to serve in a calling, and the person serves and blesses many others. “But they are also blessed themselves as they serve. Their families are blessed in their absence,” Tueller explained. “Children of those who serve and those who are served are blessed by the increased faith of their parents.” Tueller has also learned the importance and value of priesthood keys. “These are real, and there is heavenly power connected to them. I have seen it in others, and I have felt it myself.” He said he also has learned the Lord truly does speak through his prophet and studies all the general conference talks President Nelson has given. “There are over 90 of them, and all are very helpful, but his talks since being called as the prophet are packed with treasures of truth and practical principles that will make our lives so much better if we will apply them.” Waite said, “I admire his willingness to serve everybody and kindness. I learned to be humbler and read scriptures at a deeper level from him.” Tueller said the most powerful lesson he has learned is that people’s testimonies and faith must be nourished every day. “Too many of us are living on borrowed light – borrowed from others or borrowed from a time we served as missionaries when we were living in a way to receive more light. Some call this ‘the memory of a testimony,’” Tueller commented. Tueller explained people’s spirits need daily nourishment as much as their bodies do, and if they do not give it the attention it needs, their faith weakens and leaves them spiritually vulnerable. Tueller believes the most important attribute of being a good leader is humility. He quoted from Doctrine and Covenants 136:32-33, “Let him that is ignorant learn wisdom by humbling himself and calling upon the Lord his God that his eyes may be opened that he may see, and his ears opened that he may hear. For my Spirit is sent forth into the world to enlighten the humble and contrite.” Tueller explained, “This tells me that if we are humble, God will teach us to be an effective leader.”
Support from others Tueller said his fellow servants, including his counselors, high councilors, clerks, executive secretaries, bishops, Elders Quorums and Relief Societies, Primary workers, and ministering brothers and sisters, do all of the heavy lifting in a stake. “I am in a calling that cannot be successful without the consistent help of others. Today, we have a fabulous group of wonderful and spiritual leaders who are on loan to us from the family stakes,” Tueller commented. “It is a sacrifice for all of them and a great blessing to the Married Student Stake.” Tueller also said his wife, Laurie, has been supportive in every calling he has had. “She is very forgiving of the time I have to spend and helps make my life rich by the thousands of little things she does
on a regular basis to bless me and support me. We both know very well that I am less effective without her support.” Josephine Nakalatia, a junior from Laie majoring in psychology, said, “President Tueller is a great leader. I have interacted with him a few times since being called to the Relief Society Presidency in my ward, but he always gives off a really positive and kind vibe.” Nakalatia continued, “My daughter and I go for walks in the morning as part of our daily routine, and a few times, we have run into President Tueller. Although I’m sure he is very busy and probably doesn’t remember my name, he always makes an effort to smile and say Hi. It’s the small things that truly matter, especially during this pandemic, where we are reduced in ways we can serve each other and interact.”
“It is not always easy to change things, but knowing about the problems allows us to try. I think this perspective has helped me contribute as a vice president in ways I may not otherwise be able to.” -Steve Tueller
A member of Tueller’s stake Josephine Nakalatia said she often goes walking in the morning with her daughter and sometimes runs into President Tueller. She says he always smiles and says Hi to them.
Graphics by Bruno Maynez
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The Lord will prepare a way Students share during the pandemic personal revelation gave them hope and peace, helped them make decisions, and overcome personal problems BY BROOKE GURYN
Students shared how the Lord had prepared ways to get through the pandemic even before it happened. They said the invitation from the prophet, Russell M. Nelson, to “hear Him” has opened doors to receiving personal revelation during this time, and the revelation to create gospel-centered homes and incorporate “Come, Follow Me” have confirmed God’s divine help. “The prophet shared the message ‘#HearHim,’ and he mentioned during this time, we need to listen and to hear Him,” said Shantall Morales, a junior from Mexico studying psychology. “I remember this video came out just before the pandemic. I loved it because it was relevant to my life at that time, but since this pandemic, it has been essential.” She added, “I feel revelation during this time has been drastic for me. I’ve prayed, and I have received guidance. The answers are often very clear. I have noticed that for a lot of people.” Gaby Amaller, a junior from Canada studying cultural anthropology and human resources, shared President Nelson’s revelation to establish “Come, Follow Me” confirmed to her he is being led by the Lord. “The revelation came before to prepare us as members and disciples of Jesus Christ so we can endure this time and reinforce our testimony of the plan of salvation.” 18
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Personal revelation During the 2018 mission leadership seminar, Elder David A. Bednar shared lessons about the spirit of revelation. He said, “Defined most simply, revelation is a communication from God to His children on the earth and is one of the great blessings associated with the gift and constant companionship of the Holy Ghost.” Amaller shared she had originally decided to stay in Laie, but after prayerful consideration and running into her stake president, she decided quickly to book a flight and fly home the next day. She recalled after saying her goodbyes to her friends leaving for New Zealand and Sweden, Amaller said she felt she wouldn’t be seeing them for a while. She said the following day, she went to Tita’s Grill, where she saw the YSA 1st Stake president, Kingsley Ah You. She said, “He came rushing into Tita’s to check in on his business. I didn’t even know that was his business, and I just walked up to him, not thinking twice, and I asked him for a blessing. He gave me a blessing right there at Tita’s Grill.” Amaller said shortly after she received the blessing, she felt that she needed to leave the island and started packing and bought a ticket for the next day. She went back to Canada and, shortly after, she explained, left for Utah with her
“The Lord has taken care of everything. I can see why no doors were opened because there was something bigger coming.” - Gaby Amaller brother. “The crazy thing is I really feel I am here because this is where God wants me to be. I didn’t have my dream plan fulfilled, but I have had incredible moments that were able to confirm I was supposed to be here in Utah.” She said she had trouble finding a job but later got an opportunity to work with a professor in her major. “The Lord has taken care of everything. I can see why no doors were opened because there was something bigger coming.” Eve Gonzales, a senior from Texas studying accounting, shared she was trying to figure out where she should be and which internship to take as her graduation approaches. “I felt a confirmation I wasn’t going [on my internship] when my bishop called me to be a Relief Society president here in Laie. I wanted to cry because I knew I wasn’t going to be getting the internship I had applied for. I was still hoping and praying for it.”
Artwork by Hannah Manalang
She recently received the news she did not get the internship, but she said it didn’t even phase her because she knew God had another plan. The path to healing Morales said the Lord prepared a way for her to heal during this time, as she was struggling emotionally and wasn’t facing her problems because she was so busy with her everyday life. She added, “I didn’t have the time to think about my healing. I had school and work, and if I had free time, I would use it to go out with friends. When quarantine came, it was like complete silence. It was me with me and the Lord. It was me realizing, ‘Shantall, you haven’t overcome this.You need to heal.You need to face yourself. Don’t cover it with other things in life but instead heal it.’ “It has been a painful process. I had to realize there were traumas I was carrying, and insecurities and fears I wasn’t aware of because I was busy with life.
“They were coming out a lot. They came out in different ways like anxiety, depression and what a lot of people are facing in quarantine.” She said quarantine is pausing the world so people can look inward and fix what needs to be fixed, and after this ends, they can push forward more powerfully. “We really need to trust in the Lord. These are scary times, but they are very hopeful times too. There are opportunities to grow and be better than we have ever been, but we just need to put ourselves in His hands, and He will take us there.” Ways to invite personal revelation Elder Bednar taught, “We do not have to recognize at the moment that we are receiving revelation when we are receiving revelation. Simply be good. Remember and honor your ordinances and covenants. Just go and do your best, and you will be guided, blessed and become an instrument in the hands of the Lord to accomplish His purposes.”
He added, “The Lord often requires that we initially go and do without knowing why. Latter-day Saints cannot and should not wait for an explanation before acting because we have the sure promise of the Lord. ‘Blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more’ (2 Nephi 28:30).” Gonzales said, “I have been trying to hear Him through increasing good thoughts and also acting when I receive a prompting.” Amaller said, “I have prayed and showed humility and trust in God. Letting go of the fact that I do not have control over certain things, but I do have control over other things. I can make the most out of my time, put in the effort, and try to do things right. “I can do the small and simple things: church, reading my scriptures, reading a lot. I can try to see everything with an eye of faith and not with my temporal eyes but more with my spiritual eyes.” S E P T. 2020
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Religious influence in politics and voting BY SERENA DUGAR IOANE
Professors and students say being a good citizen goes hand in hand with being a good Christian
Political science professors Troy Smith and Line-Noue Memea Kruse, and students Leslie Harper and Anne Tobon shared how they value their rights to vote and how their Christian values shape those views. Religious influence in politics Troy Smith, a professor in the Faculty of Business & Government, said the United States Constitution recognizes an individual’s right to worship as one’s choice. “This includes the right to use one’s faith to make political decisions and even support or oppose policies in the public square.” Smith explained how most major religions recognize patriotism is part of being a good human, which is what religion concerns itself with also. Patriotism is belonging to and valuing being a member of a political community. The duties and obligations that go along with citizenship 20
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are doing good services for the state. Smith said, “When done well, religion will help individuals be both ‘good humans’ and ‘good citizens.’” Leslie Harper, a freshman from Canada majoring in supply chain operations, said his beliefs are the basis of how he conducts his life and views the world around him. He shared he has strong beliefs in the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ, so agency is important to him. “Lucifer wanted to force us, but the Savior gave us agency. I struggle when I am told what to do. Instead, I like to make my own decisions with good guidelines,” Harper shared. “I want my government to reflect my religious beliefs, which is the core of my life.” Smith added the Constitution prohibits the government from favoring one religion over another. “Although what this means is sometimes disputed, I think the history
confirms that this does not mean religion, in general, should be separate from politics but that the government cannot favor any specific religion over any other.” Importance of voting According to Smith, voting is an essential component of being a responsible citizen in the United States because voting is how the government’s priorities are established. The greater the number of people who vote, the harder it is for corrupt people to commit electoral fraud, he said. “Thoughts and beliefs are insufficient to make one a good person. Actions and works are also required, and voting is one of those basic actions.” Harper explained because of democracy, he has an opportunity to choose who will represent him at the governmental level. “Someone told me if I don’t vote, I do not have a right to
Graphics by Sadie Madriaga
complain. We don’t always get the people we want, but if we don’t vote, we are guaranteed that we won’t get them at all.” Line-Noue Memea Kruse, an adjunct professor in the Faculty of Culture, Language & Performing Arts, said she sees the exercise of an engaged citizen through voting. “Oftentimes, I am amazed at the disastrously low percentage of registered voters who come out to vote in the United States. “As a woman, I think of all the people who fought so hard for women to have the right to vote. This right was only enforced one generation ago. For years, women went through violence, intimidation, and political-voting disenfranchisement.” Anne McCarrey Tobon, a senior from Laie majoring in anthropology, shared how The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ prophets encourage its members
to vote. “I believe it is good to vote. I vote every time when I have a chance.” Tobon said she believes it is her responsibility and opportunity to share her opinions even though they are not always influential. “If you don’t vote, you don’t have a right to say what is wrong or right because you don’t contribute either way. Through our good example, we can influence our country to be better.” How to be a better voter Smith said in order to become well informed about different candidates, voters should read multiple competing news sources. “There are very few good and unbiased news sources today. It is best to seek to be informed from multiple sources with competing viewpoints.” Smith said he also follows individuals who have demonstrated a track record
of commitment to truth, willingness to criticize their own side and non-ideological thinking. “For the politicians who are in office, we can look at their voting record to see how they vote and whether that matches what they say.” Smith said the weakness of democracy is people will use the power of the vote to choose things that benefit themselves rather than the public good. Such behavior is selfish rather than good citizenship, and will be harmful to the state and polity, he added. It is helpful to remember that the power of democracy is aggregating numbers to make important decisions, he said. “Do your best to be informed and make the right decision, but be grateful the fate of the world does not rest in your hands.”
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A home-centered gospel BYUH ohana share at-home church has blessed them individually and as families BY HAILEY HUHANE
Students and alumni said having the sacrament at home and studying “Come Follow Me” with family and friends has strengthened them spiritually during the pandemic and helped them during this time of uncertainty. Photo by Olivia Tsan
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, on March 14 President Russell M. Nelson shared a message of hope and direction to individuals worldwide after the March 12 worldwide suspension of church meetings. He said, “After prayerful consideration and with our deepest desire to be part of the solution to this challenge, we have recently made temporary adjustments to the way we worship and serve the Lord. ... Temporary changes in our normal routine may allow additional time to experience how precious home-centered gospel study can be.” To heed the Prophet’s counsel, Church members worldwide transitioned to Sunday services at home. BYU–Hawaii students said this transition was both a blessing and a unique experience, adding they will remember it for the rest of their lives. 22
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Ema and Conway Kaka, both BYUH alumni, said they found the transition to athome church to be a positive experience. Conway Kaka said, “We actually love it. Obviously, we feel that it was inspired. It’s been a good thing for our family.” The couple recalled their first sacrament meeting at home with their extended family members. Ema Kaka noted, “We were singing ‘Love at Home,’ and I looked around the room and thought how grateful I was that we got to have church together as a family and to have worthy priesthood holders carry out the sacrament.” Conway Kaka added, “It was a very memorable experience to conduct that sacred ordinance in our house. It’s a reminder that next to the temple, the holiest place is your home. I really felt and feel that every Sunday.”
Both Ema and Conway Kaka said having church at home affected their daily decisions and interactions. Conway Kaka said they are more focused on keeping the spirit in their home because it is also where they take the sacrament. “I’d never think about having an argument in the sacrament room at church. It’s brought a new spirit and dynamic into our home for sure.” Ema Kaka said having the “Come, Follow Me” manual as a guide was a blessing, and it deepened her love for the gospel and brought her family closer together. She said, “They were very specific with what they wanted us to be teaching and learning in our homes. We’ve been very intentional about how we study the ‘Come, Follow Me’ manual both individually and as a family. It makes everything more unified.”
Graphics by Bruno Maynez Siosilina “Lina” Polaapau, a junior from Tonga studying biology, said she had a unique experience living in the hales. During the pandemic her ward shrunk and because of the small number of students, they have continued to meet every Sunday at the Stake Center for sacrament. “There are only three girls left in our ward, so it’s just us and the bishopric. The boys do their own since they can administer the sacrament,” she said. Since they are required to wear masks, Polaapau described how they are able to reflect on the hymns’ words instead of singing them. Polaapau said she misses listening to her fellow ward members’ testimonies but said the “Come, Follow Me” manual helped her study the gospel more deeply.
“The ‘Come, Follow Me’ manual is a very helpful resource, especially during these difficult times. Each of us has the opportunity to feed ourselves spiritually and become fully converted into Christ’s gospel.” Gerome Romero, a freshman from the Philippines studying biochemistry, shared his experience preparing the sacrament in the hales. Romero said when the lockdown began, the bishopric told them to prepare the sacrament on their own in their hale units. Romero said this worked fine at first. “However, my unit mates started to return to their respective countries little by little. There was a time where I was the only remaining student in my unit. Thus, I needed to perform the sacrament on my own.”
Romero said blessing and serving the sacrament was difficult at times, but because of the help and support of the other students in the hale “every Sunday has become such a delight.” Romero and his friends decided to meet together every week and found that their unified study of “Come, Follow Me” bound them together. He shared, “Having these gatherings has helped us stay on track with the gospel and grow spiritually during this time of turmoil.” President Nelson said, “I promise you that joy is always in the reach of everyone who will hear him and obey his laws. ... I love you, I pray for you and I promise that you will receive comfort and peace as you continue to hear Him.”
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Love
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Graphics by Hannah Manalang
Sparks fly as students and faculty speak of unexpectedly finding their eternal companions BY BROOKE GURYN Students and faculty described their first times meeting as “magical” and shared how they determined if their eternal companions were the ones for them. They explained how reaching out to the Lord, praying often, taking time to get to know one another and pursuing their 24
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questions in faith helped them find their answers. Malia Malala, a former student and the spouse of Ojay Malala, an alumnus from Michigan, recalled her first experience meeting her husband at a school dance. After getting ready for bed, she said she took up a friend on their offer to go to the dance and go in her pajamas. A friend of hers introduced them at the dance, and Malia Malala said they were both attracted to each other. Despite this, they did not talk much due to the loud music and the dark dance floor. Coincidentally, the next day they were both at the temple taking pictures, and both of them took double takes, she said.
“When we were at the temple, I felt a spark and all types of feelings. Every time he smiled, it made me smile. Every date since my cheeks hurt because I loved his smile, and I [am] the happiest when I [am] with him.” Ojay Malala added, “The Sunday we saw each other at the temple, it shocked me. I thought she was very cute. I felt a spark.” Larry and Joyce Smart, former senior missionaries currently working in the Mathematics department at BYUH, shared they experienced love at first sight. They were both in a pre-med meeting. Larry Smart saw Joyce Smart, but she didn’t see him until they ended up working at the
same butcher shop, and Larry Smart said that was where the love began. Joyce Smart said he asked her out to a work Christmas party, and afterward, they continued dating. She said, “My mother was worried because she would ask, ‘Are you sure you don’t want to date other guys?’ But we continued to see each other. “We felt the spark and magic spending time together. We have five kids, all married, and actually, every one of my children right out of the ballpark said they felt that way and were captivated by the person they married.” Larry Smart said his wife was different than the other girls. “I was dating a couple of other girls at the time when I met Joyce. She impressed me because she had excellent values. That kept me wanting to stay dating her because of the way she chose to live her life.” Expectation vs. reality Each couple shared how they were not expecting to meet their companions in the situations they met them in. They testified of the power of prayer and how it helped them in their decisions to get married. Joyce Smart said, “We were so afraid to talk about marriage because we were so young and had so much school ahead of us. “Once you get married, there’s a lot to get to know about one another. It was good to have that strong confirmation we both received from the Spirit because it carried us through the times when it was rocky or hard. ... We had made the decision that
we would push through the hard times. It’s never perfect. We are still people who sometimes are not perfect.” Larry Smart said, “Don’t expect perfection. Be grateful for the good things and be forgiving for the others.” Of the difficulties of marriage, Malia Malala said, “Be willing to compromise if somebody has a trait that is not ideal for you or your dream spouse. There were some things that I didn’t like about my husband and probably the same for him about me. Don’t look for the one person who has every single thing on your list because you’re never going to find that in a person. Be willing to compromise and work through it.” In March, Mark Maslar, a sophomore from California studying theatre education, married his wife, Johanah. He said he believes people don’t have a specific soul mate, but they can create a soul mate relationship with the person they choose. “For me, when you know someone well enough and know [you] could live with this person for the rest of your life with their problems and weaknesses, it will be okay. “I got a confirmation from the Spirit the day of our first kiss. She shared [personal stories], and I felt to kiss her and share sweet words to her. I got this confidence I knew was the Spirit because I wouldn’t have known how to do that on my own. It was a strong impression, and since then, we just knew.” Ojay Malala shared how he often talked with his bishop about marriage, and
he and his wife went to church searching for a confirmation. They said they both knew three months into dating they wanted to get married, and they spent more than two years getting to know one another. “We broke the ice before getting married,” said Malia Malala. She said she believes knowing what the other likes, dislikes and how to push each other’s buttons has helped them in their newly married life. Faith over doubt “There were a few times I would find myself starting to have some doubts. It takes faith to persevere through those and remember the confirmation you had that it was a good choice. It’s a lot of faith involved,” Larry Smart said. Malia Malala said, “I was dating another guy when I was dating Ojay. I had feelings of doubt because I had two great guys. I called my mom and explained my situation to her. I also prayed about it. Ultimately, I knew the Lord would support me in whatever decision I chose. I followed my gut.” Joyce Smart emphasized it is important to be really in tune with the Spirit and listen. “If you get confirmation it’s not right, follow through and end it. It can be easy not to want to complicate things and hurt feelings, but it will be worse to carry through. “Live your life so you can receive personal inspiration because you need it in all aspects of your life, and this is one of the most important decisions of your life.”
The couples shared they never expected to meet their spouse where they did. From left to right: Photos provided by the Smarts, Malalas, and Maslars.
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Missionaries offer free services during the pandemic Elders say they reached out on Facebook pages offering to serve the community BY BROOKE GURYN
Elders serving on Oahu said they want to show love to the community through service. Photos provided by Elders Naea, Simpson, and Ludovico
Missionaries serving on Oahu said they love to serve others, especially during the difficult times brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through Facebook they offered to do wash cars, yard work, cleaning, home improvement projects and home scripture study. “This is the time… people need a helping hand. Why wouldn’t you want help from someone to do a car wash or any other job? Why not have that extra hand around? Ask us for help,” said Elder Naea, a missionary from California. Elder Simpson, also from California, said, “Please call.” Their other companion, Elder Ludovico, from California, added how the missionaries genuinely wanted to help. 26
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“Make sure you’re checking up with people in your ward. Don’t check out and just do church at home and not reach out to others.” -Elder Simpson
To Simpson, the meaning of service is sharing and showing love to one another. Ludovico said service is keeping the second greatest commandment of loving thy neighbor. Naea said, “Service is loving people enough to forget about yourself.” Serving others The missionaries also offered ways people could serve alongside them. Simpson said, “Make sure you’re checking up with people in your ward. Don’t check out and just do church at home and not reach out to others.” He encouraged people to do their ministering work. Naea said Church leaders, and especially President Russell M. Nelson, have been preparing church members for
Below, The elders say they have been washing cars, above, helping around people’s houses and more. Elder Naea says during the pandemic, who doesn’t want an extra hand.
this time to continue in the Lord’s work. “This is what it has all led up to, so we can bring the gospel to others and continue to have the church function and stay organized. … We were prepared,” he said. Ludovico said, “God is in control, and he is aware.” He added how everyone has a supreme being who knows what they are going through, and this is an opportunity for others to learn. “People are going towards religion, and we have the chance to touch others through technology.” According to Simpson, “People are being humbled, feared into repentance and to change. People are wanting to learn more because of [COVID-19]. I’m seeing a lot of curiosity in non-members, which is excellent for missionary work. Naea added people can use the internet to ask if others need help. He also said, “Share your testimony often.You can do this by posting on social media.” The elders said they had to get creative during the pandemic. Naea explained, “We have been asking questions to others about the gospel on our Facebook stories and making it interactive to respond. People can have more opportunity to learn the gospel.” S E P T. 2020
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Truthfulness of the gospel Students share how their testimonies grew through dramatic and gradual experiences
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Graphics by Sadie Madriaga
BY BROOKE GURYN Students and faculty members share they have learned the Church was true through individual experiences, feeling the Spirit and living the gospel. Professor Eric Marlowe, an associate professor in the Faculty of Religious Education, said, “I have had very strong, even dramatic, experiences that have confirmed the truthfulness of the gospel to me. But the real strength behind what I believe has largely come through thousands of smaller confirmations. ... The analogy I like to use is that of a strong fabric made up of thousands of threads.” He said he had felt the strength of his testimony being like a tapestry of thousands of strands of confirmation through relatively simple, yet genuine efforts to live the gospel. “Kindness, caring, forgiving others, prioritizing family, honesty, patience, seeing the good in others and seeking to understand before being understood are some of the things that helped him find his testimony. Testimony building experiences At the Face to Face devotional on Sept. 13, Melanie Rasband, wife of the apostle Elder Ronald A. Rasband, shared how she received her testimony of the Church’s truthfulness. She said, “I was born in a devout Latter-day Saint family. The moment it really came was when I was 15 at a Young Women’s camp testimony meeting. “The Spirit was so strong. It burned in my heart, and I just knew. I knew Joseph Smith was a prophet of the restoration. I knew the Church and gospel were true. I knew I would never leave the gospel, and my testimony has grown ever since.” Jared Horton, a sophomore from Utah studying human resources, said, “Being raised in the covenant, people assume you always had a testimony. I don’t think that is always the case. I think there is a point in everyone’s life when they need to decide what’s true to them and what’s not.” Horton said it took him until he was on his mission to know the Church was true. He said building his testimony was
gradual like a sunset, and it took a lot of scripture reading, fasting and prayer. Oketi Teekiu, a junior from Tonga studying mathematics, said her best friend was a Church member growing up, but she was not. She attended many Church activities, but she was never interested in being baptized or attending a Church school. She attended a government school until teachers began to leave, and she was unable to receive the classes she wanted. She said, “I felt I wanted to transfer, and I kept feeling I wanted to go to the Church school. It was bizarre because I grew up never wanting to be a member or to go to the Church school. But this time, it was different. I had a feeling I wanted to go, but I didn’t know why.”
“I have had very strong, even dramatic, experiences that have confirmed the truthfulness of the Gospel to me. But the real strength behind what I believe has largely come through thousands of smaller confirmations.” -Eric Marlowe
Soon, Teekiu started remembering what the missionaries had taught her in the past. She said she felt the desire to pray and ask where she should be. After praying the next morning, she felt right about going to the Church school and wanted to be baptized. She said she immediately went to her best friend’s house and told her, “‘I will be baptized!’ Her whole family was there, and they thought I was joking because it had been four years, but I confirmed to them again. The mom called the missionaries right away, and the missionaries came.” Teekiu shared the truth of the Church was confirmed through her prayer and the confirmation from the Spirit. “The peaceful feeling that I felt, I didn’t know what it was at that time, but after I became a member, I recognized it as the Holy Ghost.” She has thought about the many blessings she has received because of the gospel, and “it strengthens my testimony.
“Once I became a member, my life started to fall into place. I attended a Church school, entered the temple and served a mission. My family joined the Church. I was sealed to my family in the temple.” Horton shared while serving in the Fiji mission, he desired to have a Fijian jacket unique to Fiji. He shared he fasted and prayed for this jacket. “I remember getting on my knees and praying for it. I thought it was silly, but I wanted it. I fasted that day, and I said, ‘I know, Heavenly Father, that this is silly, and it’s no future or anything of great value, but if you give me this jacket, I will ... believe.” He went out with his companion and did normal work, and at the first lesson he was teaching, he saw someone, and they were wearing the jacket. He asked if he could get one, and the person sold one to him. “It was a defining experience. Over time it continues to be experience after experience. I could never doubt it,” he said. Nourishing our testimonies Horton said to nourish people’s testimonies, they have to look at their actions and thoughts. “[We need to be] making sure we are doing the right thing and also thinking about the right things [and] striving to live a more Christlike life.” Marlowe shared alongside smaller experiences that build his testimony, keeping the commandments, which he considers guidelines to happiness, and seeking to emulate Christ reminds him of the gospel’s truth. “I am repeatedly reminded of the gospel’s veracity and truthfulness by the fruits it produces and the way it makes me feel.” Teekiu shared her testimony of the blessings of knowing the Church is true. She said, “Thinking back on all those many blessings I have received from the Lord’s Church and seeing how it happened is not something that happens out of nowhere. “I know I have been blessed for being a member. I know there is nothing that can give me this but the Church. I can know there’s a Heavenly Father who loves me and knows what I am going through.” S E P T. 2020
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Preparing to meet your Maker BYU–Hawaii students say October 2020 General Conference calls for faith in action and preparation BY GREG TIVLES & KIMO BURGESS With two new temples announced in the Pacific and a focus on love and prayer during an increasingly divisive and difficult time, BYUH students said the messages of conference were relevant to life’s current circumstances and what they needed to hear.
“As we come to trust God, sometimes through pleading in our darkest, loneliest, most uncertain moments, we learn He knows us better and loves us more than we know or love ourselves. With his help, lasting justice, equality, fairness and peace can be created in homes and communities around the world.” - Elder Gong
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President Russell M. Nelson announced new temples in the following regions: Tarawa, Kiribati; Port Vila, Vanuatu; Lindon, Utah; Greater Guatemala City, Guatemala; Sao Paulo East, Brazil; and Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Mark Lois Eyo, a BYUH alumnus, said the announcement of the new temples in Kiribati and Vanuatu stood out the most to him during General Conference. Eyo said he knew people from the two nations and was very happy for them. Saturday sessions President Nelson said in his remarks during the Saturday morning session, “I grieved with each of you who have lost a loved one during this time, and I pray for all who are currently suffering.” Ralph Mallapre, a sophomore from the Philippines studying vocal performance, said, “Those words coming from the voice of the prophet were reassuring to all individuals in their current circumstances.” Kayla Kaimarama, a senior from the Cook Islands studying political science, said it was the talk entitled “Love Your Enemies” by President Dallin H. Oaks that most resonated with her during the Saturday morning session. Oaks taught, “As followers of Christ, we must forgo anger with which political choice is debated or denounced in many settings. ... As citizens and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we must do better and help root out racism.” Kaimarama said, “With love and boldness, President Oaks’ talk could not have come at a better time than this. This talk, for me, was a call to action to do better - to be better. If we want to see change, we need to be that change.
“With recent events,” Kaimarama shared, “I have seen how political debates have caused contentions and disrupted relationships. President Oaks’ talk provides guidance on how we can approach such matters, whether it’s politics, prejudice or racism.” Marsela Tokalolo, a sophomore from Vanuatu studying supply chain operations, said Elder Steven J. Lund’s talk reminded her of the purpose of the sacrament and the representatives of the Lord who administered it. Lund taught, “Every time a deacon holds a sacrament tray, we are reminded of the sacred story of the Last Supper, of Gethsemane, of Calvary and of the garden tomb.” Tokalolo said Lund taught her not to complain but fulfill her duty as a daughter of God and stand as a witness of Christ in all places. “We can go to professionals to seek healing from depression and stress. But the ultimate healing comes from Jesus Christ because all things are spiritual.” Elder Gerrit W. Gong shared, “As we come to trust God, sometimes through pleading in our darkest, loneliest, most uncertain moments, we learn He knows us better and loves us more than we know or love ourselves. With His help, lasting justice, equality, fairness and peace can be created in homes and communities around the world.” Tsetsgee Enkhbold, a junior from Mongolia studying business management, said she found hope in Gong’s talk. “I was reminded of what the gospel has given me. I found identity, strength, and hope in the gospel,” she explained. Mallapre emphasized the significance of receiving revelation as Elder Ronald A.
Rasband said, “General conferences are always heavy with the outpouring of the Spirit and personal revelations for spiritual growth.” Tokalolo said during the Saturday sessions, she felt there was an outpouring of the Spirit, which motivates action, especially the principle of preparation. “I think the principle of preparation was well taught throughout the conference. We need to be prepared spiritually and temporally, which will enable us to face our challenges with confidence, humility and hope,” she explained. Sunday sessions Elder Jeffrey R. Holland said, “It’s the second time that COVID-19 has altered our traditional proceedings. “We are so tired of this contagion we feel like tearing our hair out, and apparently some of my brethren and I have already begun that course of action,” Holland joked. He shared a prayer Joseph Smith said when Smith was in Liberty Jail. “‘Oh God, where art thou? We, here from the depths of Liberty Jail and where is the pavilion that covers thy hiding place? How long shall thy hand be stayed? How long, O Lord, how long?’” As people worldwide feel isolated and imprisoned due to the pandemic, Holland reminded everyone they are not the first to have asked these types of prayers. He offered an apostolic promise that prayers are heard and answered because “an omniscient and eternally compassionate parent should answer them.” Ben Cranney, a senior from California studying communications, said he loved watching General Conference because it reminded him of the good happening in the world. He said the speakers reminded him to be positive even during a tumultuous time. Cranney said his favorite talk was “President Nelson’s talk about Israel and how he found a new meaning for the word we can apply to our lives.” He said President Nelson’s message to “Let God prevail,” is “such a simple but profound statement we can apply to all aspects of our lives.”
At the end of general conference, Cranney said what was spoken “echoed peace, love and being optimistic about our future.” Eyo said when there is any church meeting, the Holy Ghost is present and allows him to learn something new. “My approach coming to this conference is that my cup is empty. I have questions. I wrote them down in my notebook, [and] now I’m going to use this conference to get all these questions answered,” Eyo said. He added all his questions were “answered in ways I can’t even imagine.” Nelson said at the close of general conference, everyone should be preparing for the Second Coming of Christ. Eyo said Nelson’s meaning from his statement demonstrated that prophets are “preparing us, line upon line, precept upon precept.” Eyo said it is scary but also a wonderful union that everyone should be excited about. At the conclusion of the 190th Semiannual General Conference, Nelson asked everyone to “turn your heart, mind and soul increasingly to Heavenly Father and His Son; repenting daily; seeking to be pure in word, thought and deed; minister to others; keep an eternal perspective; magnify your callings, and live each day to be more prepared to meet your Maker.”
“Turn your heart, mind, and soul increasingly to Heavenly Father and His Son; repenting daily; seeking to be pure in word, thought and deed; minister to others; keep an eternal perspective; magnify your callings, and live each day to be more prepared to meet your Maker.” -President Nelson
E P T. 2020 31 President Russell M. Nelson speaks during General Conference from a theater in Sthe Conference Center. Photo by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Duty to Country
Why I serve Students from Asia share their military experiences and inspiration to serve their countries BY HAILEY HUHANE Students from Korea, Mongolia and Singapore said they persevered and overcame difficulty while serving in their home countries’ military. All three said their service refined them and helped them cultivate meaningful bonds with fellow soldiers they served beside. Korea Jeongheon Seo, a junior from Korea majoring in business marketing, served in the Korean Air Force for two years. He described how he worked as a military police officer throughout his years of service and served at the Air Defense Artillery Brigade. Although South Korea is currently stable and safe, Seo explained neighboring countries like North Korea have threatened his home for centuries.
The “painful experience of losing our country from the invasions of other countries” is what Seo said inspired him to serve. Today, outside countries still look for opportunities to take away South Korea’s peace, economically and militarily, Seo explained. “To defend our country from going through this painful history again, every Korean man carries a duty of national defense, which is why I served in the military.” During his service, Seo’s base was located deep in the mountains of Paju, South Korea. He said it was so close to the border, “I could see North Korea on a clear day. “My main task was to guard the base and identify the people entering and leaving the base. Our team was made up
Tan said he served in the military for two and a half years. Photo provided by Galvin Tan
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of 10 soldiers, and we regularly patrolled around the mountain to monitor the enemy’s movement.” He compared his experience in the military to his time serving a mission. “Of course, life in the military and life in the mission is certainly different, but there is a similar pattern. It was not easy to adjust to military life because I had to abandon my old habits and follow the rules and schedule.” Seo explained he had to receive permission from his seniors to do anything, but as time went on, he said he became proficient in his work and was eventually able to educate recruits. Seo shared how the best parts about his military service were his relationships and the tactical skills he learned while training.
“My main task was to guard the base and identify the people entering and leaving the base. Our team was made up of ten soldiers, and we regularly patrolled around the mountain to monitor the enemy’s movement.” - Jeongheon Seo Seo said he became friends with fellow soldiers during training. Photos provided by Jeongheon Seo
He said he became close friends with others through training together for weeks and months, despite differences in rank. Seo detailed the unique skills he learned, such as handling weapons and operational tactics. He also learned the value of patience and leadership – traits he resolved to always carry with him. Seo expressed his love for Korea and acknowledged its rich and challenging history. “What I love about my country is its culture. Our country has fought many wars and had to endure an invasion from a country stronger than ours. However, even though we have gone through this harsh period, our culture is maintained until today. That is the reason why we value and love our culture.” Mongolia Saruul Ochirbat, a sophomore from Mongolia majoring in psychology, served in the Mongolian military for three “I love those guys who served with me. We ate together. We ran together. We worked together. We went through hardships together. I have a special bond with my comrades.”
- Saruul Ochirbat
months. At the time, Ochirbat said he was unsure of what he wanted for the future and decided to join. During his service, Ochirbat said he learned valuable life skills such as discipline, patience and hard work. He also forged meaningful bonds with his comrades. “I love those guys who served with me. We ate together. We ran together. We worked together. We went through hardships together. I have a special bond with my comrades.” Each day was the same, said Ochirbat. “Exercise, training, then on duty to guard special objects. Eventually, I got used to it, and it became a normal routine.” While serving, Ochirbat recounted he learned how to handle weapons and complete tasks without excuses. Despite his hardships, Ochirbat expressed his pride in Mongolia. “Mongolia is the least densely populated country in the world. We have a vast land that is so beautiful. I love Mongolian nature and history. We have a long history. I’m proud of the history of the continued on page 34
A Thai soldier stands in arms. Photo by Somchai Kongkamsri from Pexels.
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GreatEach Mongol day was Empire the same, that dates said Ochirbat. back to “Exercise, the XIII century.” training, then on duty to guard special objects. Eventually, I got used to it, Singapore and it became a normal routine.” While serving, Galvin Ochirbat Tan, a junior recounted fromheSingapore learned how to handle majoring in exercise weapons andand sport complete science,tasks withoutinexcuses. served Singapore’s infantry for two and aDespite half years. his hardships, In Singapore, Ochirbat every male expressedishis citizen required pride intoMongolia. serve two“Mongolia years in is the military, least densely he explained, populatedbut country Tan had in the a world. Wereason different have afor vast serving. land that is so beautiful. “What I love Mongolian inspired menature to serve andtohistory. my We have fullest was a long the thought history. of I’mkeeping proud my of the history country family, of the Great and loved Mongol ones Empire safe.” that datesLike backSeo, to the TanXIII alsocentury.” compared his time serving in the military to serving a mission. “The Singapore military and the mission are similar. The only Galvin difference Tan, a junior is that from the Singapore military was majoring more physical in exercise while the andmission sport science, was much servedspiritual.” more in Singapore’s infantry for two and a half years. Both pushed In Singapore, him outevery of hismale comfort citizen is required zone, he said, to serve and required two years a great in thedeal military, of resilience, he explained, determination but Tan had anda mental different reason for serving. strength. “But “What when inspired I gaveme mytoallserve to both, to my my fullest life waswas changed, the thought and I became of keeping themy bestfamily, country version of myself.” and loved ones safe.” Like Seo, Tan also compared his time serving in the military to serving a mission.
“TheTan military recalled andthe thehardships mission are he similar. endured The only while serving. difference The most is that challenging the military part was of more physical being a recruit,while he explained, the mission waswas themuch first moreweeks two spiritual.” of basic training. Both pushed “The first twohim weeks out were of hisrough comfort as I zone, he said,from transitioned and civilian requiredlife a great to that deal of a of resilience, soldier. The main determination aim of a recruit’s and mental journey strength. is to wear him down, removing negative traits.“But Then, when developing I gave myhim all again to both, intomya life was fine soldier, changed, son, brother and I became and man.” the best version As graduation of myself.” approaches, recruits mustTan go through recalled an theevent hardships calledhe“field endured while serving. camp,” Tan said. The Field most camp challenging requires part all of being a recruit, recruits to spendheone explained, week in was the jungle, the first two weeks learning infantry of basicskills training. and drills. “It is the most “Thementally first two and weeks physically were rough draining as I transited time of a recruit’s from civilian life, but lifealso to that one of of athe soldier. Thea main memories soldier aim holds of a dear recruit’s to him.” journey is to After wear him fielddown, camp comes removing graduation negative traits. day, where Then,recruits developing musthim march again 24into a fine soldier,inson, kilometers fullbrother battle order and man.” while carrying As graduation 40 kilograms approaches, of equipment, recruits must he said. go Immediately through an event after called the march, “field camp,” Tan recruits have said. their Field graduation camp requires paradeall to recruits to spend commemorate their onegraduation. week in the jungle, learning Eventually, infantryTan skills saidand he drills. was promoted “It is the most to sergeant’s mentallyrank andand physically was sent draining to sergeant time of a recruit’s life, but also one of the mem-
cadet aschool. ories soldierUpon holdsgraduating dear to him.” from sergeant Aftercadet fieldschool, camp comes Tan was graduation assigned to aday, base where where recruits he trained mustand march groomed 24 kilometwo ters in full sections of battle 30 soldiers. order while carrying 40 kilograms By theofend equipment, of his service, he said. his Immediplatoon ately afterofthe80march, consisted soldiersrecruits in total, have he their graduation “It explained. parade definitely to commemorate changed my their graduation. on life with the lives of 80 perspective sons,Eventually, brothers orTan husbands said he in wasmypromoted hands.” to sergeant’s Tan’s time rank in the andservice, was senthetosaid, ser- was ageant timecadet he will school. alwaysUpon remember. graduating It was from sergeant there he cultivated cadet school, a deep Tan love was assigned for the men to a base he served where beside. he trained He said, and“The groomed best part two sections about serving of 30 issoldiers. definitely the relationships formed. By the A special end of bond his service, is formed his platoon when consisted you are pushed of 80 soldiers beyond your in total, limits, he exand plained. you look“It todefinitely the guys around changedyou. myWe per-push spective each other onto lifeachieve with the success.” lives of 80 sons, brothers or husbands in my hands.” Tan’s time in the service, he said, was a time he will always remember. It was there he cultivated a deep love for the men he served beside. He said, “The best part about serving is definitely the relationships formed. A special bond is formed when you are pushed beyond your limits, and you look to the guys around you. We push each other to achieve success.” Graphic by Esther Insigne
“The best part about serving is definitely the relationships formed. A special bond Graphicisby Esther Insigne formed when you are pushed beyond your limits, and you look to the guys around you. We push each other to achieve success.” - Galvin Tan
Tan said he served to keep his family, country and loved ones safe. Photos provided by Galvin Tan 34
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Graphics by Sadie Madriaga
voting Voting Why matters, according
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BY EMILY CASSLER
With election day approaching on Nov. 3, there will be college students voting for the first time in the U.S. general election. Based on an online survey done on Instagram, the majority of students commented that the voting process was confusing, especially those living away from home in a different state for college. Out of 42 students who participated in an online poll, 63 percent said the U.S. general election voting process confused them, while 37 percent said the process was not confusing. Gabby Brown, a sophomore from Colorado studying biology, explained the pandemic situation adds to the voting process’s confusion. “I just think voting by mail is a little weird, and it seems foreign compared to the traditional voting process. I think it will confuse young voters more than usual.” Despite these feelings, some students shared why confusion would not deter them from hitting the polls. Avery Oldner, a sophomore from California studying elementary education, shared, “Yes, I am going to vote. It is empowering that my opinion matters.” According to NYU student Kate Glavan, in her newsletter, opinions in the election especially matter for those residing in swing states. Glavan is majoring in political science. She produced a newsletter this summer for those who wish to learn more about the politics of the United States. Her newsletter reports for those who reside in a swing state, political opinions and voting decisions will greatly affect this election’s outcome.
to students, and the basics of the electoral process
According to Dictionary.com, a swing state is defined as a state where the two major political parties have similar levels of support among its voters. Thus, a swing state’s votes can sway one way or the other during an election, making them priorities for presidential candidates. Brown expressed her wishes for young voters to research the presidential candidates. “I feel like people are encouraged to vote but aren’t educated enough about the candidates. Their opinions are based off of mainstream media more than anything else.” Students living off-campus this semester and doing school remotely may reside in a swing state. According to USEmbassy.gov, swing states include Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, New Hampshire, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin. Kelsea Smith, a sophomore from the swing state of Nevada studying elementary education, said she recognized the importance of her vote in this election. “We should all care what is happening in our country, so I am for sure voting.” An absentee ballot must be requested if a student is living out of their home state, but they still want to vote as residents of their home state. Voteology.org specifies which states do and do not have a required length of time you must be a resident to vote for that state. It is advised absentee ballots be requested as soon as possible. About 31 percent of mail is taking longer than usual to be delivered, reports the Washington Post, due to the pandemic and budget cuts
from the U.S. government to the United States Postal Service. The recommended vote-by day is Oct. 13 for absentee voters says the U.S. Federal Voter Assistance Program website. Those who are staying in-state and planning on mailing in their ballots can research online the election’s supervisor in the area to find out where mail-in ballots can be dropped off. These drop-off points can be different locations other than regular polling places. Drop-off ballots ensure one does not have to rely on the USPS and limits the risk of infection of COVID-19 by avoiding polling places. Brown added students should be aware of these special circumstances before it is too late to vote. “Living in a democracy is awesome, and voting is the fundamental process in a democracy. I don’t want to waste the freedom that I have.” For those unfamiliar with the U.S. election process, there is a decentralized system where each state manages its own elections. U.S. citizens who are at least 18 years old can vote in the election of the nation’s leader. Rules may vary state to state about citizens with past felony charges and their ability to vote. It is important to do research based on the state voters live in to see if they meet the requirements. Each U.S. state has electors or groups of people who cast a vote for the state’s preferred candidate. The population of each state determines how many electors each state gets. The number of electors in the electoral college is 538. This means that one candidate must get 270 of the electoral college votes in order to be elected. In the words of John F. Kennedy, “The ignorance of one voter in a democracy impairs the security of all.” S E P T. 2020
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Where they stand Students share their opinions on the 2020 presidential candidates and election BY CARLENE COOMBS
Graphics by Hannah Manalang With the 2020 presidential election approaching, BYU–Hawaii students discussed why they do or do not support the presidential candidates and their thoughts on voting for third-party candidates. On Aug. 18, the Democratic Party formally nominated former vice president Joe Biden as the Democratic presidential nominee, according to AP. Kamala Harris, a California senator, will be Biden’s running mate and is the first Black and first South Asian American woman to be on a major party ticket. Running as the Republican candidate will be U.S. President Donald Trump who was formally nominated by the Republican Party on Aug. 24 during the Republican National Convention. Running with Trump will be Mike Pence, the U.S. vice president. Donald Trump Clarissa Tekeiaki, a BYUH alumna, shared she doesn’t “like everything about 38
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Donald Trump, especially his character, but I really strongly support him because of his policies. “The main thing that’s most important to me that I can see is the deregulation of the economy and the free market system. That creates jobs and wealth and prosperity for all Americans.” Tekeiaki added she is anti-abortion and finds Trump’s stance on abortion aligns with her beliefs. Elias Hopkin, a senior from Ohio majoring in TESOL, said he believes Trump is divisive, so he does not support him. “He focuses his messages on his base and seems willing to throw everyone else away,” Hopkin said. “Even though there are a lot of other people. I also don’t like how he doesn’t admit when he makes mistakes, even when it’s very clear.” Fahina Lauti, a sophomore from California studying political science, said seeing how Trump has handled coronavirus and his stance on immigration are some reasons why she won’t be voting for him.“I do feel Trump failed to prepare us for the
coronavirus, even though health officials did warn him before it even reached the U.S.,” Lauti said. Joe Biden Lauti shared that while a part of why she supports Biden is Trump, she appreciates Biden’s stance on climate change and his intention to bring the United States back into the Paris Climate Agreement. “I support Joe Biden in his plans to reduce emissions, unlike Trump, who believes it is a hoax, which, in my personal opinion, and with scientific evidence, is not true.” Lauti added, if elected, she hopes Biden could bring a fresh perspective to the presidency. “I think Joe Biden will definitely bring new ideas to the table. I think it would be good for America to switch things up, especially after going through this hard pandemic.” Hopkin said Biden is a politician who is motivated by getting elected and just supports what will get him votes.
2020 Presidential candidate survey results Results from a self-selection survey conducted through social media. 51 BYU—Hawaii students, alumni and faculty took part of the survey. Those who took the survey were asked about their opinions and support for the 2020 presidential candidates and their running mates. Does not support candidate
Supports Candidate
Undecided / Neutral
Donald Trump
Mike Pence
- Incumbent U.S. President - Former Businessman
- Incumbent U.S. Vice President - Former U.S. representative and Indiana governor
Joe Biden
Kamala Harris
- 2020 Democratic Presidential nominee - Former U.S. Senator and U.S. Vice President
- Biden’s running mate and incumbent California Senator - Former California Attorney General
Sources: joebiden.com whitehouse.gov
“He doesn’t really seem to stand for things as a general set of values, and he’ll support whatever he thinks will get people to vote for him. I don’t particularly care for career politicians, because they often care more about getting elected than they care about actually making things better.” Tekeiaki said one reason she doesn’t support Biden is his stance on abortion. “He’s really following this leftist ideology that is really pro-abortion, and that really concerns me,” Tekeiaki expressed. Kelly Martinez, a senior from Florida studying cultural anthropology, shared she believes Biden is disconnected from the American people and is a “watered-down version of Trump.” Voting third-party Hopkin shared he chooses to support Jade Simmons, an independent party
candidate, because he dislikes both major party candidates. Hopkin said he came across Simmons through a Facebook ad and found many of her values align with his. “The whole thing with her campaign is we need to stop taking sides and saying there’s us versus them, and these people are one side or the other. “Everyone in the country should be able to be part of the solution and make things better.” Another thing that caused him to support Simmons is her strong Christian values of loving and respecting others no matter their beliefs. Hopkins shared he is choosing to support a third-party because he dislikes the idea of voting against someone, for example, voting for Biden because you dislike Trump or vice versa.
“I don’t like that because it gets mediocre politicians, and it reinforces a two-party system and keeps newcomers out of politics.” “The lack of good choices is often strengthened because people are willing to settle for someone ‘meh’ to avoid someone they view is just unacceptable.” Martinez said while she doesn’t support Biden or Trump, she doesn’t intend to vote third-party because of the slim chance of a third-party candidate getting elected president. “It’s always been Republican versus Democrat, and I know there are other options and maybe give them a chance. But I did that with the 2016 election. I voted for Gary Johnson, and he didn’t win. “If it has to be between one of the two people, I’ll choose the lesser evil.” S E P T. 2020
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Fighting the good fight Army veteran, Harvey Toelupe, dedicated his life to serving God and his country, inspiring his posterity to follow BY HAILEY HUHANE
Photo provided by Reuben Alisa
After 29 years of military service and a lifetime serving God, Harvey Alisa Toelupe left a legacy impacting his country, posterity and the Laie community. Toelupe passed away in 2018 at the age of 88, but his family carries on his love for America. Toelupe’s son, Reuben Alisa, said of his father, “He was a true veteran all the way down until the end. He really loved the country that brought a lot of opportunity to our family.” Toelupe’s posterity includes 10 children, 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Toelupe was born on April 4, 1930, in the village of Malie in Western Samoa. It was there he was raised alongside his 15 brothers and sisters. In 1948, at the age of 18, Toelupe joined the U.S. Army, where he was eventually recruited to box on the Army’s boxing team. During a fitness test at Oahu’s Schofield Barracks, Toelupe noticed a boxing team training in a ring near the new recruits. Toelupe approached and volunteered to stand in as a sparring partner. Toelupe was quickly recruited when they noticed his powerful left hook. He boxed for the Army team for five years.
“One thing [my father] always said is, ‘It’s always nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.’ He was such a good example. He was selfless and always put others first.” - Reuben Alisa 40
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A true patriot Toelupe fought in both Korea and Vietnam, where he served as a communications specialist. Reuben Alisa said, “He was a proud veteran, but he never spoke to us about his wars. He could speak to us about the military, but he never spoke to us about the wars or what he experienced.” Reuben Alisa recalled the impact his father’s service had on the family growing up. He said, “We’ve had brothers and
Toelupe served in both the Korean and Vietnam War. Photos provided by Reuben Alisa.
sisters born in different parts of the world: Korea, Germany, Okinawa, all on military bases. We experienced military life and benefited from the education and are so appreciative of the nation that has given back to our family. “He really established within our home duty to country and God, hard work and allegiance to the nation. And the next generation is still continuing that tradition.” He continued, saying, “Until the day he passed and even until today, few families raise their flag in Laie, but there was always an American flag at my mom and dad’s house. Always waving in the wind, and his graveside is now encircled with flags. He really loved this country and couldn’t speak enough about how appreciative he was for what it has done for our family.” Leading by example Due to his example, Toelupe’s children and grandchildren have chosen to join the service. This includes one of his daughters and his oldest son, who eventually became an officer in the military. One of Toelupe’s grandsons became a pilot in the Air Force. In 1977, Toelupe retired from the military and moved his family back to Laie. He worked as a counselor at Laie Elementary School and as a security officer at the Polynesian Cultural Center, where he eventually became safety director. After
retiring from the Center in 1994, he took up being a bus driver in Kahuku. Reuben Alisa said, “We tried to retire him, but he was such a busy body.” Toelupe instilled within his children a love for the gospel, boxing and music, Reuban Alisa explained. “He loved music. He was an avid piano player, and he played at a lot of the funerals here in Laie. He would just show up and walk right to the piano. They always appreciated it.” Reuben Alisa recalled his childhood years when he would hear his father playing. He said, “My parents lived on Iosepa street, so coming around that street as kids, we could always hear my father playing the piano.” From his father, Reuben Alisa learned the value of kindness, he said. “One thing [my father] always said is, ‘It’s always nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.’ He was such a good example. He was selfless and always put others first.” Toelupe’s granddaughter, Talianne Alisa, spoke of her relationship with her grandfather. She said, “I had a lot of one-onone time with him. He was the best grandpa I could have ever asked for. He was so protective and so supportive. My confidence as a little girl wasn’t always high, and my grandpa was definitely the one who built confidence in me.”
Now that she’s older, Talianne Alisa expressed her appreciation for her grandfather’s reverence for the gospel. She said, “He instilled the gospel in our family and made sure that when we go about our lives and do what we need to do, we never forget God. Now that I’m older, I really appreciate that.” Talianne Alisa recalled her grandfather’s words to her. “You know Tali, if you’re ever in a situation where you know you’re right, and you feel it in your heart, no matter if it could cost you your life, you say a prayer in your heart, and you stand up for truth and righteousness no matter what.”
Toelupe is pictured with his granddaughter. S E P T. 2020
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A climate in crisis BYU–Hawaii alumni and staff emphasize the reality of the current climate crisis in the midst of natural disasters BY EMILY CASSLER
Destruction from wildfires near the Lake Detroit Market in Detroit, Oregon. Photo from the Associated Press
With fires raging on the U.S. West Coast and Hawaii’s recent near-miss with Hurricane Douglas, NASA climate scientists and Hawaii’s local environmental educators and activists said the increase of natural disasters is no coincidence. Rather, they said, if actions are not taken immediately, the ongoing climate crisis is an event that could lead to fatal repercussions for the earth and its inhabitants. “I wish people understood this is a people problem,” said Spencer Ingley, a biology professor at BYU–Hawaii who emphasized humans are not separate from the environment they inhabit. “We are all going to be affected by this crisis, and it will take effort from all of us to fix it. This will require some sacrifices, but if we don’t make those sacrifices now, we will be forced to make them in the future when the climate provides us with no alternative.” The Center for Climate and Energy Solutions website explains what climate change is and the science behind the events, specifically how climate change is caused in large by human activity from 42
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greenhouse gases and not by natural variations in climate. The Center’s website says emissions from cars, power plants, and other humanmade innovations that require energy contribute most to greenhouse emissions. Carbon dioxide is the main greenhouse gas, and the concentration of this gas within the earth’s atmosphere has reached a peak that hasn’t been seen in 800,000 years, says the Center’s website Greenhouse gases act like a blanket, trapping the sun’s warmth near the Earth’s surface, affecting how the climate system runs, states the Center’s information. If people continue on their current path and emit more greenhouse gas, the Center’s website says the earth’s temperature could rise by 9 degrees Fahrenheit. A 1-degree global change is significant because it takes a vast amount of heat to warm all the oceans, atmosphere and land by that much. In the past, a 1-to2-degree drop was all it took to plunge the Earth into the Little Ice Age, it says on earthobservatory.nasa.gov. Ingley explained what this could mean explicitly for Hawaii. “Here in Hawaii,
the major concerns are sea-level rise and the potential for more intense hurricanes. Sea level rise can occur both as the polar ice caps melt and as the ocean heats and expands. These are major concerns in Hawaii and throughout the Pacific because populations are concentrated very close to the shoreline. “Over time, these shorelines are expected to retreat, and our governments will be required to spend billions to mediate these effects through sea wall construction and other infrastructure changes. The warming seas also increase the potential for stronger hurricanes, which thrive on warmer surface temperatures. We could expect more frequent and intense storms in the coming decades,” Ingley said. BYUH alumnus Tanner SanchezSmith studied biology and is continuing his studies at BYU in Provo. He explained students don’t have to venture to the ice caps to see the effects of climate change. “More frequent tropical storms that bring about more flooding, erosion and infrastructure damage are associated with climate change. The roads that the
Signs outside of a parliament building in Berlin, Germany, for the “Fridays for Future” movement. Photo by the Associated Press
North Shore community relies upon (Kamehameha Highway) are constantly crumbling from sea level rise. These things have real social and economic impacts.” The Center’s website explains if people make efforts to reduce their emissions now, the earth’s temperature will still rise, but humans can limit it to 4.8 degrees Fahrenheit. Another alumnus, J. Eston Dunn, is taking the knowledge of conservation biology he learned at BYUH to Dutch Harbor, Alaska, as an observer at the National Marine Fisheries Service. Dunn shared how people can make changes in their own lives to help lower emissions. “Most of my efforts in lowering my emissions are diet-related. I actively eat less meat and processed food, which significantly cut down on my carbon footprint. Right now, in Alaska, I haven’t seen a ton of effort in cutting down on emissions. People are mostly focused on reducing pollution and plastic usage out here,” Dunn said. Ingley also gave ideas on how to be more environmentally conscious. “In my family, we are very big on energy conservation. We take advantage of natural light to light our home and the trade winds
to help keep us cool. We try to grow as much of our own food as possible and share what we can with neighbors. “I commute to work every day on my bicycle, which gives me a bit of exercise and cuts down on transportation costs. We also try to eat a mostly plant-based diet, getting produce from local sources as much as possible. This helps support the local economy and cuts down the carbon costs associated with importing food.” Sanchez-Smith explained it is also within the power of the people to limit the emissions from big corporations. “Corporations pollute more than the aggregate of all individuals. So, one important action we can make as consumers is to do research into responsible companies and try to avoid the big polluters. Then we can hopefully drive corporations to be more sustainable.” Both Dunn and Sanchez-Smith urged Church members to notice how religious principles of empathy should motivate and move people towards action. “This isn’t right versus left. This is truth versus falsehood, and as members of the Latter-day Saint community, we’re commanded to seek out and stand for truth even when it makes us uncomfortable
or challenges beliefs we may have held before,” Dunn said. Sanchez-Smith added to this principle. “If we are all followers of Christ, we should be concerned about our fellow man. What is more Christlike than altruistically trying to help people who are vulnerable to climate change? “If people want to get involved, they should do research into what their own actions are doing and how they can improve. Forget any political or social implications and just be willing to learn how you can improve to help out humanity.”
A man holds a sign reading, “United for climate” during a climate change protest in Brussels, Belgium. Photo by the Associated Press.
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Peace ambassador for life Senior Edmond Saksak says he is preparing himself to lead his country BY SERENA DUGAR IOANE
Being a leader was his childhood dream, said Edmond Saksak, a senior double majoring in political science and social work from Vanuatu, and he wants to serve his people in the future. His professors and friends shared how great a leader he will be in his home country. “I have always liked doing service because seeing others happy makes me the happiest person,” Saksak shared. He explained said the lessons he learned throughout his life prepared him to be a leader. “I am going to help my people just as Jesus would have me do.” Christina Akanoa, an assistant professor in the Faculty of Business & Government, said Saksak took several political science classes from her. Akanoa said she supports Saksak’s goal of running for Parliament in Vanuatu. Akanoa said Saksak has great leadership qualities. “He is genuinely concerned about people and cares about them. ... He is always thinking and always likes to pick my brain about certain topics.” She said Saksak is mature in his thinking and articulates well. “He is 44
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committed and very smart. This will make him a great candidate for the Vanuatu government.” Akanoa said she admires his “honesty, passion [and his] genuine love for his people and others.” She said Saksak is “sincere and has strong moral standards. He will be a great leader someday.” Saksak said he is willing to become a leader in any department of the government in Vanuatu to make sure services are received and hold those involved in corruption accountable. “My No. 1 goal is to make sure the distribution of services is given fairly throughout our six provinces and to leave no one behind.” Preparing to lead Saksak said he is preparing himself emotionally, physically, spiritually and mentally to meet people’s needs and connect well with people and political rivals. Line-Noue Memea Kruse, an adjunct professor in the Faculty of Culture, Language & Performing Arts, said Saksak has been in her political science and upper-
level Pacific Islands Studies classes, and he is one of her best students. She said Saksak has been very civicminded in his academic endeavors, his class projects and personal engagements always center on transparency, education and honesty. “This is why his university studies here at BYUH are critical to his professional pursuits because we try to foster these exact values and characteristics,” she said. Kruse believes BYU–Hawaii and all her classes have benefited immensely from Saksak’s passion, critical thinking, empathy and good works to other students inside and outside of classes. “Edmond is not part of the herd mentality. He thinks for himself and will go head to head with any professor if he believes his position has a stronger argument.” Kruse said in one of her classes where Saksak was present they were talking about “violence in homes targeting women’s exclusion from being legally protected in the villages.” Kruse said, “Edmond was the strongest voice in the advocacy of child
BYUH senior Edmond Saksak is pictured at the United Nations peace summit of emerging leader in February 2020 in Bangkok, Thailand. He would like to run for the Parliament in his home nation of Vanuatu. Photo provided by United Nations Humanitarian Affairs Asia
protection and the rights for all to be free from violence and pain. He made recommendations in parliament for bills to be introduced that could protect women and children.” Kruse said Saksak is the epitome of why BYUH exists: “To further educate Pacific students to return home to build economies and strengthen families but also to build the Kingdom of God by loving everyone and not excluding anyone.” Saksak plans to go to graduate school after graduating from BYUH, focusing on international policy and development
program at the University of Hawaii or the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. “I know it will take another two years, but I believe pursuing a master’s degree will help me to be a better leader.” Saksak said he already started to prepare for the entry exams of the master’s program. He explained today’s economic and social challenges demand more knowledge to navigate the global aspects of development. “I believe the knowledge I will gain from my master’s will help me promote
and implement policies that will make the world a better place for everyone.” When he will become a leader Saksak said when he becomes a leader in Vanuatu, first, he wants to ensure human rights, gender equality and identity are being respected. Second, he wants to make sure the services from the government are distributed equally and fairly. Third, he wants to reevaluate and redesign some policies to bless people’s lives. Continued onS Epage 46 P T. 2020
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Fourth, he wants to stop international corrupt people from hiding in Vanuatu because Vanuatu is a tax-free haven for them. “I will make sure if they are running away from being taxed by their country, then I will tax them in Vanuatu.” Fifth, he wants to increase intercultural competence. “Intercultural competence is another interesting subject when I become a leader of a small nation with only a population of 300,000, but that speaks over 100 different languages and different traditions.” Akanoa shared, “He will make a great leader someday. He will definitely influence and implement change in Vanuatu. He is a smart student who is committed and always tries his best in every given assignment. “Edmond loves to read and will always do extra reading for my classes. He asks questions, he articulates well and participates when needed.” Akanoa said she hopes she has helped Saksak understand the concepts of politics, particularly in the area of small island nations such as Vanuatu. “I have taught in most of my Oceanic government classes about current issues, both regional and national, that our Pacific Island people are facing and how we can assess, analyze and implement for change if it needs to be.” She added, “It is our role as island students in the context of our nation-states
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to see how we can contribute to resolving issues relevant to our well-being.” Akanoa said Saksak is also a member of the Human Rights Club at BYUH, and they have been actively discussing dominant issues in Oceanic regions, such as climate change, seabed mining, fisheries, good governance and gender equality. Akanoa said she creates assignments that allow the students to actively participate and articulate their thoughts on these issues through in-depth research. United Nations peace ambassador Saksak attended the United Nations’ Peace Summit of Emerging Leaders in February 2020, in Bangkok, Thailand. “The summit aims to empower young people and inspire youth who are passionate about positive social changes,” according to the University of New South Wales’ news. Saksak said he swore to become a U.N. World Peace Ambassador for a year at the summit. Although he pledged to be a World Peace Ambassador for one year, Saksak said he is a peace ambassador for life because of his covenants with the Lord. “When I read the teachings of our Savior, Mosiah 18:8-10, I learned that we are officially covenanted with the Lord to be his peace ambassadors for a lifetime.” It gives him a broader look into people’s lives and helps him understand the only way to fight
injustices is to fight with love and peace, Saksak added. Saksak shared his favorite quote by U.S. Senator John Lewis, “Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful. Be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month or a year. It is the struggle of a lifetime. Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble.” Saksak said he believes to make a difference in the world, he must be different from the world. He said BYUH helped him obtain secular and religious higher education and build connections with people from all over the world. Kayla Kaimarama Willie, a senior from the Cook Islands majoring in political science, said Saksak is a hardworking and dedicated student. “He knows what he wants and is self-motivated to accomplish his goals. He is confident in all he does and not afraid to speak his mind even when his opinions are viewed as unpopular,” Willie commented. According to Willie, Saksak aspires to respect different views, analyze problems and identify the best solutions based on what is good and right and in the best interest of those around him. “He has integrity, good work ethics. He is a good team player and compassionate. He takes personal responsibility and serves those around him.”
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Graphic By Bruno Maynez
Edmund Saksak said he believes love and peace are the keys to fighting injustice. Photo by Li Ho Yin
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A voice in the community Political science students and a professor discuss the importance of local politics
BY CARLENE COOMBS Political science students and a professor shared the impact local politics can have on communities is greater than people suspect because federal programs are often run by state and local officials - so who community members elect to state office affects more than just local laws. Troy Smith, a professor in the Faculty of Business & Government, said local and state governments control the laws that affect a person’s everyday life, such as safety and education policies. In contrast, the federal government controls issues like foreign affairs and interstate commerce policies. “Even when the federal government creates policies, it relies on state and local governments to implement and enforce many of those policies. This gives the state and local governments considerable authority and power to make and enforce the laws and policies that affect us in our daily lives,” said Smith. Kimo Burgess, a senior from Aiea majoring in political science, said, “The people who are running for office will decide how things are done in the community. So by not 48
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getting involved in local elections, you allow other people to make decisions for you.” Stephen Perez, a junior from Mexico majoring in political science, said from his experience in the United States and Mexico, local elections can be more important than national ones because of their impact on communities. He explained, “I feel [local elections] are probably more vital sometimes than national elections because local elections are where we see firsthand the effects of actually participating in elections. We see actual physical changes in our communities.” Smith said local and state politicians impact federal politicians because they need the support of local officials to implement federal policies and keep voter support. “State and local officials can also sometimes threaten the reelection chances of federal officials by feeding media stories or supporting opposing candidates.” He continued, “More specifically, local issues such as how the police train and treat citizens, whether schools are held in class or online, and income inequality are experienced
locally but have national reverberations.” Smith said because the population within state and local governments is smaller than the nation, citizens have a higher influence in state elections and politics. “Because few people actually participate in state and local politics, there is a real opportunity for people to be influential. If you would get 10 of your friends and participate in local political party activities, then you and your friends could have a lot of influence on law and policy.” Burgess said, although “our democracy isn’t perfect,” it is important for people to get to know candidates well, register to vote and to go out and vote. He called voting “a sacred duty” and said more people need to be involved in it. Perez said citizens should be encouraged to participate in their local elections and other government elections. “That’s a great benefit for [citizens] and communities. In fact, our Church leaders ask us to participate as well, and there’s reasoning behind it.”
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Serving home from BYUH Students who helped their communities while studying at BYUH share how they served their people from afar BY SERENA DUGAR IOANE
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BYUH alumnus Nasanbold Sukhbaatar raised money by fixing bikes to buy cold weather coats for children in his home country of Mongolia. Photo by Ganbold Namsrai
Students from Mongolia and Mexico noted how they helped people in need through various fundraising and business projects. Bayartsetseg Ganbaatar, Carolina Beristain Cruz, Tsetsgee Enkhbold, Nasanbold Sukhbaatar and Ganchudur Batgerel shared their experiences of how they raised funds to help women and children in their countries. Caring for the homeless Bayartsetseg Ganbaatar, a sophomore from Mongolia majoring in finance, raised funds to help an elderly woman to have a new house. Ganbaatar said Facebook suggests people do fundraising on their birthdays, so she wanted to help someone in Mongolia on her birthday. Ganbaatar searched for someone who needed help and contacted Tuvshinjargal Gombo, a director of the Service Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Mongolia. Gombo connected Ganbaatar to Tamara Tsedenbaljir, an elderly lady who shelters homeless people every winter. Ganbaatar explained Tsedenbaljir recently lost her house because of strong winds.
Tamara Tsedenbaljir is welcomed to her new home by the fiancé, Bekhtuvshin, of the BYUH student who did the fundraiser to build it, Bayartsetseg Ganbaatar. Photo provided by Bayartsetseg Ganbaatar
“To be able to help more people, I have to be more educated and self-reliant. It motivated me to be more diligent in my studies.” - Bayartsetseg Ganbaatar
BYUH sophomore Bayartsetseg Ganbaatar raised enough money on Facebook to purchase Tamara Tsedenbaljir a traditional Mongolian roundhouse. Photo by Bekhtuvshin Sanjaa
Ganbaatar said traditional Mongolian roundhouses cost around $1,000, so her goal was to raise at least $980 through Facebook. She raised $1,200 within four days, so she could buy a bigger house than she planned. Ganbaatar shared, “Tamara was very happy to have a new and bigger house.” Many people helped her do this project, Ganbaatar said, including generous donors and her friends who purchased the house for Tsedenbaljir. “Seeing people happy was such a pleasure to me, so I plan to do other projects in the future. “To be able to help more people, I have to be more educated and self-reliant. It motivated me to be more diligent in my studies.” Continued on page 52 S E P T. 2020
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Top, BYUH senior Carolina Beristain Cruz is from Mexico and started a clothing business focusing on embroidery to create employment opportunities for women in her home country. Photo by Uriel Cruz Acosta Below, Models show some of the products women make in Cruz’s company, Cruz said she wanted to provide women with the chance to be self-reliant. Photos by Mark Daeson Tabbilos
Supporting local women Carolina Beristain Cruz, a senior from Mexico majoring in supply chain operations, helps underprivileged Mexican women have employment opportunities through her hand-embroidered, Mexicanstyle dress business. Cruz shared ever since she was young, she loved fashion design. She knew many women who were talented at making traditional Mexican costumes and who were living in humble situations. “Traditional Mexican costumes are very fancy and cannot be worn on a daily basis, so they cannot provide enough employment opportunities. 52
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“My idea was to create a new design that reflects the traditional designs but more comfortable to wear daily,” Cruz explained. She raised funds through dress sales and participated in BYU–Hawaii business competitions. Cruz said she won second place in both “Great Ideas” and “Empower Your Dreams” in 2018. With the money she won from the competitions, she expanded production and worked with a sewing company to produce more than 300 dresses and sent them to Mexico to the embroiderers for handmade embroidering, Cruz shared.
An earthquake hit the area where the embroiderers lived, and they lost their homes, she said. With the employment opportunity Cruz provided for them, they could rebuild their homes, Cruz explained. She helped raise $4,000 for 30 women. Cruz is continuing her business and said talents from the Willes Center and her friends from around the world are helping her empower Mexican women. “I didn’t want just to give away money, but I wanted to provide an opportunity for them to be self-reliant through their talents and skills,” Cruz commented.
Caring for children Tsetsgee Enkhbold, a sophomore from Mongolia majoring in human resources and psychology, helped Mongolian children get warm winter clothes. She said her family started the “I love Mongolia” charity project and raised funds through online fundraising and their family business. Enkhbold’s family owns a business called “Oyo Tie” that provides employment opportunities for women in underprivileged communities in Mongolia and represents Mongolia through highquality, handmade neckties. Their business won second place in the “Empower Your Dreams” competition in 2019 and donates 30 percent of their yearly income to the “I love Mongolia” project, according to Enkhbold. Enkhbold shared her mother’s hometown, Tumentsogt, Sukhbaatar, was damaged by a fire a few years ago, and since the town is located on the far east side of the country, not many charity projects reach there. Some of the children lacked warm clothes and could not go to school due to extreme cold in winter. The Enkhbold family has helped 20 children, including a few orphans.
Enkhbold said they contacted the town’s school and kindergarten supervisors and found children who needed the most help and bought full winter clothes for them. “I have learned there are many generous people who have big hearts for total strangers. I felt the help reached the children who exactly needed it, and I am very happy about it.” Nasanbold Sukhbaatar, a BYUH alumnus from Mongolia, raised over $3,000 by fixing around 50 bikes and receiving donations from running a Honolulu marathon in 2019. With the money he raised, he helped more than 300 children in four different Mongolia areas have new warm winter clothes. Sukhbaatar said, “Mongolian winters are very cold and harsh. When I was young, I used to get cold a lot during winter because I did not have enough warm clothes every winter. So I wanted to help children as much as I could.” Sukhbaatar was an employee at BYUH’s Sustainability Center, where he learned to fix bikes and utilized his skills to raise funds to help children. Sukhbaatar said his friends in Mongolia helped him to find children in need. Then
his friends purchased and delivered the clothes to them. COVID-19 inspired charity project Ganchudur Batgerel, a senior from Mongolia majoring in supply chain operations, raised funds by sewing face masks and helped a family in financial need. She sold her handmade masks for $5 each and raised $220, Batgerel said. “I helped first a family who needed help. The father of the family got into a car accident, and his brain was injured, so he could not work anymore. “Their children needed some school supplies,” Batgerel added. “I donated my first fund of $220 to the family. The mother of the family was so happy with my small service. It means a lot to me. I love to serve others because it makes me more happy than anything.” Batgerel shared she just received her next big order. A lady ordered 125 masks for IWORK donors as a Christmas gift, she said. “That order is so special to me because I felt that God is helping me with this project during this hard time. I hope I can help more families through this small project.”
The Enkhbold family and Nasanbold Sukhbaatar helped young children have proper clothes for the winter. Photo by Ganbold Namsrai
Ganchudur Batgerel raised money by selling face masks to help a family in need. Photo by Onon Dalaikhuu S E P T. 2020
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From the outside looking in International students share their insights on American politics BY CARLENE COOMBS From the United States’ influence around the world to the passion Americans have for politics, international BYU–Hawaii discuss their opinions and perspectives on American politics. “I’m not putting America’s politics on a pedestal. But I admire the way [America] runs the country because it’s a very constitutional and democratic country, and that’s what I admire. In American politics, freedom is such a big deal, and not many countries make that a big deal,” said Angela Morales, a junior from the Philippines majoring in political science and psychology. Rahel Meyer, a sophomore from Germany studying communications and political science, said attending BYUH has taught her about the American government. “Since living in Hawaii, I’ve learned so much more. I had a lot of prejudices before and so coming to Hawaii and getting rid of some of them really changed how I view American politics.”
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Passion for politics Shantall Morales, a junior from Mexico studying psychology, said she feels Americans are very outspoken about their country’s political issues. “They have very strong opinions. People go very, very strong on their politics here.You don’t hear it the same way in Mexico.” Gaby Amaller, a junior from Canada majoring in cultural anthropology and business, agreed with Morales and added she’s noticed “even celebrities post on Instagram who they want to be elected.” Inosi Kinikini, a senior from Fiji studying psychology, shared he never learned about American politics at home. When he came to Hawaii, he saw how often citizens used their voices to speak out on political issues. “I was never into politics until I came to America, and I saw everybody fighting for their voices because, at home, we just listen. I mean, we do have a voice, but it doesn’t really matter sometimes. But here in America, I saw the need for other voices.” Kinikini said in his home country, citizens will trust the government leaders and won’t speak out on issues until it is too late. He added in America, he sees citizens immediately raising concerns over issues. While he agrees it is important to speak out, Kinikini added he finds many Americans are skeptical of following government leaders, specifically mentioning recent opposition to wearing masks. “Here in America, even the idea of wearing masks, people go against it. There’s this campaign happening of people
not wanting to wear masks. But back home, if the government says we need to wear masks, we will definitely wear masks. We won’t campaign against it because we know it’s for our health. I was so shocked looking at people campaigning.” Sam Tobon, a senior from Columbia studying human resources, said he believes the comfort that many Americans live in allows them to be so outspoken and fight for various issues. “I’m from a developing country. There’s still a lot of poverty. There are still a lot of issues … and over [in the United States], there’s so much safety. There’s so much opportunity. There’s so much wealth and comfort.” Tobon added in the case of recent COVID-19 restrictions, the rules have caused discomfort and because Americans “are not used to living in discomfort, they speak out.” Influence in the world Amaller explained because of how close Canada and the United States are, many people in her country pay close attention to the elections in the States. “Whoever got elected during the elections, we heard about it. It was really cool when Obama was elected president. My school, which had a lot of AfricanCanadian students, all gathered in the gym, and they broadcast when he got elected.” YuChun Tsang, a junior from Taiwan studying TESOL education, said many citizens in her country closely watch relations between the United States and China. “I think people are more focused on the relationship between [United States
and China]. And I think because the people care about their relationship, the more I care about who will win [the election] and the vote.” Meyers said Germany and the United States are close trading partners and have been allies since World War II. According to state.gov, Germany is the United State’s closest and strongest ally in Europe with a relationship based on trading, sharing common institutions, and friendship. “Of course, Germany is not a superpower like the U.S. is, but still… the economic connection is really closely tied,” said Meyers. “America has a huge impact on Germany and especially with the car industry.” Meyers also pointed out the effect the United States has had in history, especially in international relations after World War II. “I think it has a huge effect, especially in its connections in the United Nations, NATO and everything. Those are the international organizations that are there to keep the peace between countries and holding other countries back from going to war. Imagining Russia or just China without America, I think it would be kind of crazy. So I’m kind of glad America has power.” Meyers added since Trump’s presidency, she has seen how a country’s president can affect relationships between two countries. “It’s kind of sad to see how a lot of Germans are offended by the way Trump treats Germany, which is the thing I do not support. I don’t believe that Trump has to treat Germany the way he does, and kind of destroy decades of … building a good relationship. ... A lot of [Germans] say they don’t want to go to America anymore.” Most recently, Trump announced he plans to withdraw 9,500 U.S. soldiers from Germany after he “accused Germany of being delinquent in its payments to NATO,” according to BBC. Tobon shared he recently had a negative experience with actions taken by the Trump administration. For example, the announcement to bar international students who were taking online classes from remaining in the United States was rescinded on July 14, and he also the push
for a wall on the U.S./Mexico border. “Over these last couple of months because … of Trump, I feel people can seriously feel, ‘I don’t want to live in a place that has a president like this.’ He’s done some very questionable things, and the results have been the policies he’s created and the laws he’s put in place, pushing the rest of countries away from us.” Opinions on the government system and policies Tsang shared she admires the balance within the U.S. government, which keeps one person from becoming too powerful. “I think [the United States] has a really good balance between the government and the president... If Donald Trump decided to do something and the whole government thinks it is crazy, you guys would try to stop him. I think that is a good balance. It makes me feel like you guys really know what is best for this country.” Morales said she respects how the United States values freedom and its constitution, which she feels gets neglected in her home country of the Philippines.
“I think the United States of America sets an example of valuing the Constitution, of valuing freedom, of eliminating corruption or minimizing it … I think that’s something I really treasure because that’s the only way that system could work. In the Philippines, if you’re powerful enough, you could just get rid of people who are going against you.” Morales said an aspect of American politics she doesn’t believe is currently working is the two-party system where many elections, such as the presidential election, only have a Democratic candidate and a Republican candidate. “I think anyone could run for president. I’m only looking at it from the lenses of an onlooker. But I think there’s nothing in the Constitution that says there should only be a Democratic and Republican Party. “I think American people should have the chance to be able to select, not just from two candidates from both parties but for possible, credible, competent people who are able to run for president.”
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Opening the chapel doors YSA Wards begin in-person attendance amidst the pandemic, while taking the necessary precautions BY MCKENZIE CONNELL
Students are starting to meet in-person for church but with restrictions like wearing masks and social distancing. Photo photo by Ho Yin Li
As Young Single Adult wards begin to reopen on campus, students said they are looking forward to the social aspects they have missed out on due to a lack of in-person meetings. Six months after returning home from his mission early due to the coronavirus pandemic, Ephraim Uyehara, a freshman from Laie majoring in biology, said he has been unable to attend his home ward and has instead been meeting with the Hale La’a YSA ward. “When I first came back, they were doing [sacrament meetings], but then they stopped again. This is the second time now that they’ve opened back up, which is nice,” Uyehara said. 56
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Bishop Pili Lafaele, bishop of the Hale La’a YSA Ward, said once the stake authorities approved gatherings on Sept. 17, they immediately planned to meet the next Sunday. Being able to go to YSA wards has been enjoyable, he said, because he has been able to meet other students who are living the same experience as him. As the state allows more gatherings to happen, it also opens the doors to more socialization, something Uyehara said was missing from his life. “There’s that social aspect to the gospel as well as the spiritual... and it felt like [there] was a piece that was missing that was there that day,” he said.
This missing piece was also noticed by Amber Lorenc, a freshman from Utah majoring in cultural anthropology. “[Home church] was good. I liked it. But it’s nice being with more people. I enjoy going back and seeing people.” Lorenc said her ward keeps growing after the initial 35 attendees the first week. Uyehara said he was also pleasantly surprised by the number of attendees. “It was cool to see there were a lot more students there… than anticipated.” Lafaele said there were about 75 students in the congregation. Hale La’a is one of the biggest YSA wards associated with the school, but due to the coro-
navirus pandemic the average attendance of 140 students per meeting dropped, according to Lafaele. He said it is due to students remaining at home and doing classes remotely. Lafaele, a former student of BYUH and now a bishop, said he has noticed the changes in bishopric responsibilities during the pandemic. “We don't really have much to do as a bishopric in running the ward… but the one part that’s been added onto our plate as bishops is the mental and emotional status of the ward members,” he said. According to Lafaele there has been an increase in depression and relationship problems due to the coronavirus pandemic and lockdowns. These lockdowns have led to concern for his congregation as young adults, he said. “Young single adults with nothing to do; no work, no school, a lot of free time on their hands… it’s a good formula for disaster for a bishop,” he said. As the coronavirus pandemic continues, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has established guidelines for bishops and wards to follow. Lafaele said his ward is doing its best to obey the rules.
Graphic by Bruno Maynez
He said he believes the Church is already starting to resume its normal patterns, especially after General Conference weekend. On Oct. 11, the Hale La’a Ward will resume a twohour church, with the same restrictions the Church is requiring of everyone wearing masks, limiting the number of people who attend, sanitizing between wards and more.
Wards will have gradually open and will follow state rules and guidance from stake leaders. Photo by Alvin Dy
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Diversity in a diverse country
Variety of perspectives in government officials are necessary for effective, understanding service, according to BYUH students, professor BY CARLENE COOMBS 58
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Graphics by Hannah Manalang
BYU–Hawaii students said because the United States is a diverse country, diversity in government representatives are needed to represent the people better. “We need our people in our government to both represent us and to be knowledgeable of the daily life of an American right now,” said Olivia Hixson, a sophomore from California majoring in hospitality and tourism management. Derek Whetten, an adjunct professor in the Faculty of Business & Government, said he believes there is value in having diversity in government and said minority views are more likely to be considered if minorities are involved in the government. “The larger the variety of perspectives and insights that go into a decision or solution, the more likely the government actions will better serve a greater percentage of the people who are affected by the decision or solution.” Deylan Gudiel, a sophomore from Oregon majoring in communications, said having diversity in government allows for more perspectives to represent the American people better. “A lot of times, we have straight white men making laws [affecting], say, Black transgender women where they can’t truly understand those people. “I think it’s really important to have women who can help to be a voice for women and Black people to be a voice for their communities because they’re the ones who truly understand their communities and truly know the issues.” Diversity in political affiliation is significant, Gudiel said, and it brings various ideas and values in place to make compromises. “I personally think the answer to almost all issues is found somewhere in between, where the sides can work together, rather than there being such polarized and extreme views on opposite ends of the spectrum.” By having diverse ideas and leaders who are willing to work together and compromise, the best decisions can be reached, Hixson said. “That’s just how our government works, is having opposition and having those big conversations. Hopefully, in the grand scheme of things that helps us get the best decisions, and the best policies and the best laws.” Hixson said diversity could also help the younger generation in being able to see
themselves in government leaders and be inspired by these leaders. She explained as a woman, she finds inspiration in government figures like U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and former First Lady Michelle Obama. Whetten said he believes having more diversity would encourage citizens, especially minorities, to be more involved with the government. “Citizens tend to feel more ownership of and support for their government when they feel the government officials reflect the citizens; the minority members of a community are more likely to engage with their government if the government reflects their diversity.” Because the majority elects the government leaders, Whetten said a diverse governing body could be difficult to attain.
Whetten said as humans, it’s difficult to separate ourselves from our selfinterest, and so “values like security and prosperity are more important to us than diversity. “While a lot of us appreciate the value of diverse perspectives in our government, we tend to vote for representatives who reflect our own views... Even when there are organized and sustained efforts to recruit diverse candidates, it’s an uphill battle.” Gudiel said it is also necessary to avoid “tokenizing” minorities to create the appearance of diversity while simultaneously ignoring their insights and values. He added he believes people shouldn’t be chosen for positions solely on being a minority but should “gain positions based S E P T. 2020 59 on their own qualifications and merit.”
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Sister Michelle D. Craig speaks to the women of the Church during the General Women’s Session of the 190th Semiannnual General Conference. Photo by the Associated Press.
