Meie and ‘Olelo Hawai‘i on the mauna

Abstract

As a resident of Hilo at the foot of Maunakea for the past twenty-seven years, the Mauna’s ever-present sense of protection and majesty has deeply influenced how my 'ohana and I interact and live on Hawai'i Moku o Keawe. Living among kanaka who acknowledge this piko, his godly genealogy, and who channel the spirits, care for the forest and water resources, deliver mele and hula, and hunt for food, is such an invigorating and connecting force for our ‘ohana, community, and lahui. I often think about how I contribute to these distinct groups, and how my ‘ohana will cultivate our kuleana to this aina.