Comments on: Kindness: An Unusual Story

By: Yvonne

Yvonne — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 02:32:03 +0000

This short story has made a lasting impression on me. Partly because my father also has no sternum due to similar complications. I’m glad that people like Bruce are around to share the kindness that is often lost in the translation of life. Thank you for sharing this and for brining tears of joy to my eyes.

By: Alison Miller

Alison Miller — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:12:52 +0000

In reply to Mike Fairservice. Thank-you, Mike. What a great story to share. I feel your mothers eyes smiling upon us now. I agree. "Lesson learned; Be at peace in your spirit and share aloha."

By: Alison Miller

Alison Miller — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:07:17 +0000

In reply to Malia Hosino. Malia, thank-you for sharing. It sounds like Bruce’s heroic heart recovery is but a small sampling of the acts of generosity he has imparted. Including caring for your sons own heroic journey of living with Type I Diabetes.

By: Mike Fairservice

Mike Fairservice — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 17:07:22 +0000

When my mother, Carolynn Blake, was fighting her life threatening disease,
Bruce was a comrad in arms of sorts with her and they shared
many a good laugh regarding their mortality. He was top 10 in her book and
encouraged me to get to know him better.

After mom lost her fight, Bruce’s boat was one of the fleet that paraded
farewell to her. He welcomed me aboard to crew with his fine team and I
quickly learned what mom was talking about. Bruce lives aloha in every sense
of the word and he’s one of the finest skippers I’ve had the privilege of sailing
with. Lesson learned; Be at peace in your spirit and share aloha.

By: Jay Chambers

Jay Chambers — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 15:52:41 +0000

After reading this story I was self conscious of my sternum the rest of the evening. I believe it will make me self conscious of my gratitude and kindness for much longer than that. Blessings on Bruce.

By: Malia Hosino

Malia Hosino — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:23:16 +0000

Bruce is my uncle. He has always lived life to the fullest and been a survivor. Not only does Uncle Bruce live without a sternum, but he has also lived with Type I diabetes since the age of 12. He is an inspiration to my son who was diagnosed with Type I diabetes at age 12 as well. You can feel Uncle Bruce’s heartbeat as you watch him enjoy life’s moments with his wife, children, grandchildren and extended ‘ohana. I am truly blessed to call him my Uncle and my Godfather.

By: Alison Miller

Alison Miller — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 06:57:51 +0000

In reply to Chaplain Bill Crockett.

How touching. I saw one the pictures myself, where you could look into Bruce’s body, it’s obvious your prayers and the prayers of many others combined for a victorious healing. Thanks for adding your kind thoughts. Here is a link to the photo Bruce shared of his recovery. Bruce writes, “Warning! Graphic but amazing!” – http://www.mauisailingnews.com/openchest.jpg.

By: Chaplain Bill Crockett

Chaplain Bill Crockett — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:56:38 +0000

I went to see Bruce at Queen’s when that happened, and it was scary! I could see inside his body, and he was so weak. I thought he was going to die, and prayed for my good friend, and former skipper. I tell everyone that Bruce is the best sailor I have ever sailed with. Not “best” in sailing skills (though he is amazing, for sure) but best for fun on the water. Great sportsmanship, no yelling, enjoying the beauty around us, and just living life to the fullest. He is a true inspiration, and a blessing to me!

By: Alison Miller

Alison Miller — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 04:35:04 +0000

In reply to Aron Hoffman. Thanks, Aron. In deed, the kindness quotes are a concept. Bruce creates the experience of kindness.

By: Aron Hoffman

Aron Hoffman — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 04:24:22 +0000

Being the first person that I met in Hawaii, Bruce laid the foundation for my new life here. His kindness is more than just those quotes I can assure you! Thank you Bruce!