Moloka’i: the island where Hawaiian culture grows

   Hawaii is known for its stunning scenery and intriguing culture. Living on Kauai is phenomenal, but I now know that you can never fully experience Hawaii unless you visit Moloka’i.

   I recently went to Moloka’i so I could learn more about the Hawaiian culture. Descending from Hawaiian heritage myself I was so proud to learn more about the where I come from. Hearing stories about sacred places and my Hawaiian ancestors gave me a better respect for my Hawaiian culture. Learning the same oli or songs that were sung by the Hawaiians of old helped me further understand who I am as a Hawaiian.

   Over the course of a week I met new people who were Hawaiian- just like me, and just as appreciative to learn more about their culture. Together, we went to some of the most sacred places on Moloka’i. From the chilly, mystic hilltop known as Ka’ana- the place where hula dancing started- to the humid kukui grove of Lanikaula.

   Going to all these sacred places was a unique opportunity so I made the most of it because I will most likely never get the privilege to visit them again. Being on Molokai opened up a new way of looking at the world. I realized how intelligent the Hawaiians were and that they preserved the land for the future. They also cared for everything around them; The Aina, or land; the Kai, or ocean; and most of all the future generations of native Hawaiians. Going to Moloka’i made me so proud of where I come from and now I truly understand who I am as a Hawaiian.