"Hawaii is not a state of mind, but a state of grace." — Paul Theroux

What deposed queen was also a songwriter? The last queen of the Hawaiian Islands, Lili'uokalani, wrote about 150 songs, including one that became a Hawaiian theme song, "Aloha 'Oe" ("Farewell to Thee"). The word aloha is the traditional Hawaiian greeting, and it means more than just hello or goodbye. It represents a spirit natives believe thrives locally — a feeling of good wishes, harmony, respect and consideration for others. Lili'uokalani, born on this date in 1838, was an accomplished composer; she played several instruments, including the guitar, ukulele, piano and organ. In 1999, a compilation of her songs — The Queen's Songbook — was published.