Linda Selbert, resident of Keala o Wailea (above), made hundreds of masks to share with people on Maui and in her native Michigan. PHOTO BY KEALA O WAILEA.

While the current times are unprecedented, challenging and for many heartbreaking, taking some time to see the good can help balance the pressures of the difficult.

We are learning to be thankful for what we have, to empathize with others and just how many things we can do from home!

Many have had the delight of catching up with old friends, and learning how to use technology in ways we never dreamed possible.

Some are learning how to cook, to sew and how to relax rather than to rush. And hopefully, we are all learning to cherish our friends and loved ones, and to care for strangers in need.

In addition, we are learning that kindness is an inherent trait in so many.

Below are a few “silver lining stories” collected from association management firm Hawaiiana Management Company, involving both clients and employees of the organization:

“One of Hawaiiana’s employees did some research and found a company that would deliver free meals to residents in need at one of our buildings. Those who wished to participate are now having meals delivered to their door by building staff wearing gloves and face masks. It feels great to be able to do things like this in such difficult times!” Bev F.

“In one of the buildings I manage, board members, their spouses and a few other residents made over 120 fabric face masks for the Institute of Human Services staff.” Keola K.

“One of our ‘snowbird’ residents, Linda Selbert of Keala o Wailea, purchased a sewing machine on island and ordered a bolt of filter fabric, just so she could sew masks. I am sure she has made hundreds by now, and is sharing them with people on Maui as well as in her home state of Michigan.” Carol G.

“Recently we asked residents at Kaimana Lanais to donate a dollar per unit to help the Hawaii Food Bank. We were hoping for $114, but ended up with over $700!” Ruth T., Board President, Kaimana Lanais (Oahu)

“One condo board voted to give owners a break on one full month of their maintenance fees, just to provide them with economic relief. There are good people out there doing good things!” Lourdes D.

“Our company has made a sizeable donation to Hawaii Foodbank, and plans to do more for the community after making sure all of our employees are taken care of. I am so proud to work for a company like this!” Naina O.

Deemed an “essential business,” Hawaiiana has maintained normal business hours in its Lahaina and Kihei offices, as well as offices on Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island, but have restricted in-person visits until recently.

Most employees are on a rotating schedule, which includes some work-from-home days, but when in the office, all are required to wear face masks and practice “social distancing.”