September 14, 2017

The Heart of Man


I heard about the organization Unearthed years ago and like that they were targeting the issues with pornography and the sex trade by discussing the real issue: the hearts of the human race.

This was the first movie I had been to see in the theaters this year and I felt like I was experiencing a new kind of freedom.

The movie itself was different than I expected. Mixing candid interviews with a cinematic rendition of the prodigal son, I found the blend to be a beautiful weave of testimony and visual story telling. Plus the movie had something that a lot of movies don't: shots filmed in places that I have been on an island that I love.

Maybe that seeing others interact with places I have been made the message that much more real for me, I don't know, but I left the theater discovering that my heart had been deeply touched. I found that I was one step closer to truly understanding the love that God has for me.

I am disappointed that the movie was only playing in theaters for this one day; for it contains a message that I need to be reminded of on a regular basis.

September 9, 2017

Liliuokalani Festival


Two years ago, I had just finished my first full shift at PQ. I was ready for a break but also eager to get a taste of the local culture. The timing was beautiful as the Liliuokalani Festival was the first Saturday I had off.

Last year, I had to work. I made to look ahead this year to revisit this fun event, but this time I invited some friends. 

The rain came through the night and into the morning. I looked at the sky and wondered if it was going to let up. What do you do with an event of this size that is always outdoors. Plus a helicopter was supposed to make the sky rain with orchid blossoms. 

As often happens in Hawaii, the clouds parted and blue sky pushed its way through. The helicopter on the other hand was lacking promptness. 

I loved the MCs of the event and their ability to poke fun at the delay. Even as the flowers were being dropped, they were cracking jokes at their poor aim!

Still the ceremony was rich with tradition and wonderful showcases of talent. I am always inspired by the Taiko drummers. The combination of physicality and musicality is both exhausting and exhilarating and all generations exhibit their skills. I can't imagine the hours of practice they put in.