In the spirit of Aloha

We've already arrived at our last day in this magical place of Hawaii and in the spirit of Aloha I write this post. Knowing that today is our last day, knowing that tomorrow is New Year's Eve, I woke with a sense of reflection.

The spirit of Aloha...

"Aloha is being a part of all, and all being a part of me. When there is pain - it is my pain. When there is joy - it is also mine. I respect all that is as part of the Creator and part of me. I will not willfully harm anyone or anything. When food is needed I will take only my need and explain why it is being taken. The earth, the sky, the sea are mine to care for, to cherish and to protect. This is Hawaiian - this is Aloha!"

It was in June of this year that we all made the reservations for this trip, Fuad & I along with my parents. You see, we had decided to move to Chiang Mai, and we knew that my parents & I would need something to look forward to, a time and place where we knew we would see each other again. Hawaii being a mid-way point, Christmas break being the time, meant that it would be right around my parents 39th wedding anniversary and since they spent their honeymoon in Hawaii 39 years ago...Hawaii it was.

This has been a much anticipated trip. A few weeks ago I stated that really it could have been anywhere in the world, I was just so excited to see my parents...but I'm glad it was here. This island is magical and by far the best State in the US! One night at dinner we all listed the islands we have been to, (Roume, off the coast of Guinea, West Africa, Bali, Koh Samui, Mykonos...) and I find that they all have similarities...island life is laid back, island life usually involves lots of sunshine & shoreline views and contemplation while the sun sinks into a massive body of water. Islanders smile a lot and have a deeper connection to nature, there is a sense of respect for the natural beauty surrounding you and I am in love with all of that!

So, this morning I wake and I remember that it's our last day here in this magical place with my parents, I sit in the sun and remember that the end of 2011 draws near...I give thanks for the many blessings in my life and this amazing journey 2011 has been.