Osteomeles anthyllidifolia

Osteomeles anthyllidifolia, also known as the Hawaiian rose or the Hawaiian hawthorne is a plant that grows in the Polynesian Islands. It emits a strong fragrance and can grow up to thirty feet tall. Too much water inhibits flowering. The seeds and buds can be used as laxatives or other medicines for babies. Leaves, bark, and roots are mixed with salt, pressed, and used to relieve deep cuts. The branches were also used to make nets for fishing. These days, they are used more often to make leis. Unfortunately, the information on this specific plant was limited, but this simply means that I'll have something to look for in the field. 

In addition to the brief summary of a polynesian plant, I would like to discuss the basis of our class discussion on Monday. We talked about ethics. When performing research, there are certain things that researchers can and cannot do. The standards have changed throughout history, but today they are more rigid than ever--which is definitely a good thing. The IRB has come together to build principles that cannot be transgressed when a study is performed. These principles preserve basic human rights by ensuring that those being tested are fully aware and have agreed with any experimental procedures taking place. It's important that when we go to different countries, we take care to refrain from generalizing or stereotyping anyone. We can't come back home with the idea that we know everything about Tongans or Africans or Mexicans. In fact, we will probably be more confused than when we left. It's important that we take care not to offend the connections that BYU has made abroad. I also have to remember that I represent BYU when I go there, as well as those who came before and who will come afterwards.

Every time I learn something new about the Tongan culture, I can't wait to meet these people. They say things like "Malo e leilei" which translates to "Thank you for being alive." They call the grocery store a treasure place (direct translation). The call Provo "Polovo" and Lehi is spelled "Lihāi." They use words like "fuakava" to make a covenant with the land. Boys have to call a girl's father to ask permission to see her. Things are just so different from the way they are here; I think these people must be amazing.