Day 4: Island Exploration by Takt Nagano

July 24th, 2019

Island Exploration
by Takt Nagano

Today we left UHH and explored the island. We went to places such as Rainbow Falls and Kaumana Caves where Cheyenne told us stories that originated from said places. We then travelled to Waiaka House, where we spent the night stargazing and playing card games. Our group also did more activities that deepened our bonds, such as the circle of trust.

Cheyenne sharing a moʻolelo or story with the group.
The circle of trust was an activity I had never experienced before. I shared information I have not told my friends from my high school with people I met only three days ago. Many people were also incredibly open and showed a vulnerable side to themselves, which I thought was brave considering the fact that we did not even know each other existed last week. It was also a moment for inspiration for me because many of the students' backgrounds were rough and complicated, yet they continue their academic excellence and strive to become a better person. 

Wailuku River in Hilo.
In the future, I will remember the people I met in this program when I’am struggling. The people here all have such incredible aspirations which I learned from the circle of trust, which will push me if I ever enter a dark era of my life. I am incredibly grateful to learn about the students in this program on such an intimate level, and I will use this knowledge to inspire myself and hopefully others.

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