Last night I set out from Nanakuli to go to papa hula and oli and arrived at the Center for Hawaiian Studies to find practically everyone in the Hawaiian universe at a huge lu'au. I crashed my way into the food line handing out honi to everyone I knew, hadn't seen in the seventh-month since I've been home, & those who I will miss terribly. I would say every fourth or fifth person received a free honi along with their kalua pig, long rice, fresh or sour poi, 'uala, lomi salmon, poke, smoke meat, haupia and slice cake.Reason number #1 why moving back to Boston sucks. No daily honiReason #2 no mo' 'ono Hawaiian food.I worked my way up from giving out the free honi to serving Kalua pig. The men were bringing the trays of replacement food and as the line began to slow, they began serving the women 'awa.Reason #3 you are going to miss serving and being served. Kuleana duty enlarges us all and its nice to be in the middle of the group kuleana event. Sure, we all of us have our individual kuleana, but, well 'a'ohe hana nui ke 'alu 'ia.Coming upon all of my friends, colleagues, playmates and acquaintances like that all in one place was a blessing. A reminder to hurry up, finish my work and come home "already" as some people have suggested. Playing music at the wedding lu'au were Kupa 'aina and Kamau and a whole host of other talented groups.Reason #4 why leaving sucks: No mo' live Hawaiian music, hula or singing along.When Hi'ia's kumu hula says to me, give boy a hug for us and tell him we will send him dvds of all the new hula, you remember all of the kindnesses people bestow upon you and your family when you are home.Reason #5 why leaving sucks: No more papa hula every week.Talking story with the fine ladies in line, Mehanaokala, Lani wahine, Miki'ala and Ku'ulei T. catching up on all the recent stories and what's going on with everyone, you realize you are going to miss their humor, aloha and strength.Reason #6 why leaving sucks: Missing the pu'ulu mana wahine.Late night meal after papa oli, with the halau gang. Discussing our future plans, hearing familiar voices and getting acquainted in new ways with people you have known for much of your adult life.Reason #7 why leaving sucks: well, you know....Next week's installment: Why being in Boston to write your dissertation actually r*cks!
Boston??? That's on the same coast... the East Coast. It's harsh on this side especially without Hawaiian food. I know the feeling. Unfortunately I cannot go for too long without Hawaiian food. That's the part that totally sucks.
You are soo true on your reasons....add to that the fragrances of flowers which you will not find and it makes me home sick too....SMILE. Take care and be well
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