Hui Hoapili

Spending a day amidst the presence of our kings and queens of Hawai‘i...

     As we sprawled comfortably on our halii upon the cool grass, beneath the shade of massive trees that stood amongst our people many years ago, we enjoyed the companionship of one anotherʻs presence. Gentle trade winds blew as our keiki played, while soft hawaiian melodies were sung in the background by members of the group. The mood was set perfectly and the weather followed in suit.
     Our group separated into two individual groups, 1 ʻo clock & 2 ʻo clock, was led through beautifully crafted doors made of wood and crystal. From the moment you step into this palace you take a step back into time oohhing & aahhing at how our kings and queens once lived, so much so that one may feel overwhelmed with different senses of emotions. 
     The floors made of wood, shiny and smooth, I watched as some twirled happily like little kids on a playground. The staircase made of solid koa looked regal in its own right. Starting in the Blue Room and ending in the Throne Room as we walked through, each had their own personalities and unique touches. The hint of happiness and a gleeful spirit  lingered within the throne room, unlike the feeling of loneliness and sadness that wandered within the imprisonment chamber. As I gazed back and forth upon the life size photos of our royal family and the jewelry  that adorned their attire I imagined what would it have been like to walk a day in their shoes? And if I could have handled the responsibilities and worries that engrossed their everyday lives?  I think not. 
     While on our tour our guide had said that King Kalakaua had "made" this palace so that the Hawaiians could be proud of their heritage and their people. As I left the palace grounds I found myself thinking...I am proud of my kings and queens and the people of old Hawaiʻi....if they were to come back today would they be able to feel the same pride?.... 

Mahalo to all that shared  in this special day, I look forward to many more Ohana Days AND ono food in the future!