Ode to the Big Island

Nature commands your attention here

The roar of the ocean, wild animals surprise and delight

The current crashes against my legs, making me stay alert.

Respect the ocean, for she will thrill or swallow you up

The wind blows strong, carrying scents of jasmine, plumeria and salt water

And churns the sea into dangerous waves.

Respect the wind, for she will cleanse your soul or knock you down

The earth is dry, cracked and jagged, magnificent to behold and artistic in form

Fire and lava erupt with Pele’s fury and flows down, creating new land.

Respect the earth, for it will welcome you as Ohana or cast you out forever

The fire is calm now as Pele sleeps, but we are ever vigilant to signals that she may soon awake.

Respect the fire, for we are privileged to live on her mountainside

Until she reclaims what is rightfully hers

Ode to the Big Island

HAWAI’I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK, BIG ISLAND