Maya Soetoro-Ng, Barack Obama's sister and a Honolulu resident, released this statement today in connection with the president-elect's arrival in Honolulu for the holidays:

"I certainly don't envy Barack. We have a lot of problems to solve in this nation, but I know that Barack has great reserves of strength. I think he has already done so much that is truly transformative and meaningful. He has picked a great team of bright and dedicated individuals, and his election has reminded everyday people that they are powerful and that they have all the tools they need to organize around matters of importance.

"How wonderful that he and the family are able to spend Christmas in Hawai'i. In recent weeks, I have had an opportunity to mourn our grandmother's passing. However, Barack has not.

"Next week, we will have a small family memorial for our Tutu so that Barack can grieve and emotionally process the great loss. I also hope that Barack has an opportunity to wash off his stress in salt water and re-energize for the long road ahead.

"Thank you to the people of Hawai'i for all the courtesy and aloha you have shown our family."