To Love A Place, You Have To Know It First

A couple of weeks ago, I took a class field trip to Makua Valley, a sacred and beautiful place that today, few are permitted enjoy. The tension between the military occupying the valley and those whose hearts belonged to its preservation was tangible. As a passerby, it may appear to be a striking set of mountains looking down upon a protected stretch of land, a sanctuary for wildlife. However, the scars in the valley run deep, and things are not always as they appear. After learning of the turmoil it and the people who once called it home have endured, I saw it more clearly. I was in awe that such an incredible place can't be appreciated, is so off limits, especially to those who understand it best: the native people. I left feeling confused, sad, and somewhat disappointed at how little of it we were "allowed" access to. I understand the danger, but am frustrated by why it is even a factor. The earth was never intended to be something to be afraid of, I think there's a reason nothing natural can give anyone the power that man-made weapons can.

That same day, we were guided by a Hawaiian cultural historian on the Likeke trail at the base of the Ko'olau mountains, on the opposite side of the island as Makua Valley. This place also showed signs of struggle, of change. In the remnants of the first Pali road built in the 1800's, there was history. It's one thing to hike and see the diverse plant life, the amazing waterfalls, hear the birds singing in the trees. It is another thing to see it as it was seen in the past, to understand the significance behind every rock, the importance behind a quiet meadow surrounded by a grove of hundred year old mango trees. It was amazing to experience the view of all of Kane'ohe. I could only imagine what it was like to have looked down upon the bounty of the "bread basket" of Oahu and it's many fishponds and kalo fields...

Today, riding my bike from Coconut Island to the HPU windward campus, my legs were burning and I was sweating like crazy, but I found myself looking at the mountains and thinking, "Wow, I am so unbelievably blessed to live in such a beautiful place!" Since the first day I moved to Oahu a few years ago, I have been continually blown away by the beauty of this island. However, I have realized that the more I have gotten to know this place, it's history, and it's people, the more I want to help protect what it is and to restore some of what it once was. It begins with being educated and continues with the development of respect for its culture, which comes with seeing it through the eyes of those who know it best.