A Tribute to Maui - I'll Be Seeing You
Our hearts go out to all of the families who lost loved ones during the most recent Maui wildfires. While the Lahaina, Maui fires are still under investigation, the Hawaiian community is staying strong through tributes, fundraisers and donations. Lahaina, originally a small fishing village, holds significance to Hawaii, as it was chosen by King Kamehameha II to be the revered royal capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom from 1820-45. Today, the Lahaina wildfire is now the deadliest in U.S. history in more than a century.
Since moving to LA, I’ve met and connected with a plethora of wellness artists I’ve dreamed of. One of these artists is singer, songwriter Geminelle who I’ve had the honor to get to know and who has roots in Lahaina.
Read her moving note and watch this powerful tribute that reflects the beauty of the people of Lahaina and the power that Geminelle holds.
The devastating Maui fires of 8/8 destroyed the only Hawaiian home I’ve ever known, Lahaina, my mother’s hometown. For as long as I can remember my mom would walk me through Lahaina and detail all of her childhood experiences, from the home she grew up in, to how she’d climb the walls next door to pick ripe mangoes from the highest parts of the tree. We’d walk to Front street to see her old school and sit under the banyan tree at sunset and listen to the mynah birds chatter. From there we’d ride over to baby beach, visit family and cool off in the shallow waters. Although my mom no longer lives in Lahaina, my family is still there and many of them lost our homes. All of us lost a piece of precious memories in what was a sacred place to us. Iam Tongi wrote a beautiful song after the passing of his father, and after losing Lahaina, this song was heavy on my heart. All of the memories, the joy of Lahaina will resonate in my heart for all of eternity. If you’re feeling called to support Maui in any way, I ask that you start first with the Kanaka Maoli (native people) of Maui. Many families lost homes and family members, and because Maui is a small island with one road in and out, it will take years to rebuild what’s been lost.
Here are some ways you can support people directly: