Thursday, March 1, 2012

We be Haoles

Haole first became associated with the children of Caucasian immigrants in the early 1820s. It unified the self-identity of these Hawaii-born children whose parents were as much culturally different as they were similar.[2] With the first three generations of Haole playing key roles in the rise of the economic and political power shifts that have lasted through the current day,[3] "Haole" evolved into a term that was often used in contempt. It evolved further to racial meaning, replacing malihini (newcomer[4]) in addressing people of Caucasian descent who move to Hawaii from the U.S. mainland by the 1860s.[5] A 1906 phrase book sometimes translates it to "English (language)".[6] Today it is often applied to any who are of Caucasian ancestry, or to those who think or behave in a foreign manner.

Reference - wikipedia

Living in Hawaii affords "white bread" the opportunity to experience prejudice first hand.  This is different for those of us that grew up in communities where individuals of different color and race were talked about and treated differently. 

Having others think badly of you or treat you with disregard or even disgust is a new experience for us.
And it is good - because in reinforces our beliefs that everyone is to be loved and respected regardless of their physical appearance or position in life.

Prejudice is archaic and has no place in the evolution of consciousness.   Love and acceptance for all!
Road to Hana

Back in the mid 1970's when Linda first lived on Maui the road to Hana was unimproved.  If you met another vehicle on the road, both vehicles had to drive off the pavement in order to pass.  Now you only have to pause to let other vehicles pass on one way bridges.  Going to Hana is is a wonderland - bamboo forests, rain forests, waterfalls and road side stands.  Another way of life -  far away from Wal-Mart.  Luckily, life in Hana has remained unchanged and undeveloped.  Linda's favorite all time beach is past Hana - Hamoa.  Incredible beauty in the land and the inhabitants of Hana.
Road trip

We enjoyed our first company on Maui and indulged in favorite tourist adventures.  This is some of what you will experience when you travel to this magic island.

So here is the deal - Haleakala Sunrise - totally worth getting up at 3:30 am to drive to the top of the volcano - Haleakala, to freeze your okole (rear end) off to see a spectacular sunrise.  Truly - wear four layers, hat, gloves and borrow the blankets from the hotel.  Do these people look cold? That is because they are!   No flip flops and shorts allowed.   The sunrise starts with an Hawaiian chant that sends even more chills down your spine with the awesome beauty of Haleakala crater. 

If you are young of heart and physically adventuresome - plan a three day hike through the crater. 
The vistas are breathtaking and you can enjoy the comforts of basic cabin facilities if you plan ahead.
HIGHLY recommended. FIVE stars for the ultimate Maui experience.