Adventure #5
Climbing down a steep staircase we find ourselves entering into the black abyss. A giant hole opens into the earth. Once filled with molten flowing lava, it is now sits as an open cavity in the earth. The ceiling looms above us, though with only dim lights we can not see it. This Lava Tube is high, wide, and left untouched. Another marking of mother nature’s magnificent power and force, another reminder that the land is constantly changing and growing, sometimes even fiercely here.
Lava Forest State Monument allows us to stroll through lush forests bursting with life. Throughout the walking path are ancient lava flows which once engulfed the land, left standing are odd looking obtrusions jutting out of the earth. These “lava trees” are molds of trees once engulfed in hot lava, now simply empty space held by cold, hardened lava. It is remarkable to see where once were the trunks and limbs of trees, now empty casts. Centuries old, yet I am viewing them with for the first time and wondering how many people have seen these before? What have these places endured? In the recent lava flow of 2018, they were nearly destroyed, I wonder too what other new places are being created with the new flow. It is incredible to explore such fascinating places.
One of my favorite sights is a waterfall. They are magnificent, beautiful, and powerful. The sound of raging water roars from a distance, Rainbow Falls does not disappoint. It is easily accessible and we meet many families gathered who are also gushing at the sight. Places like these certainly bring people together.
We follow the trail as it climbs way up to the source, the top of the falls. It continues further into a forest of the mighty Banyan Trees, unlike anything I have ever seen. It as if we have been dropped in another world. With far too many limbs and growths to count, each tree winds itself into the others, interlacing gracefully with each other. As I gaze upon their astounding beauty, it is difficult to see where one tree starts and another begins. The limbs are smooth and rounded, gently sloping away from the massive trunks.
As night falls, we fall into the sweet sounds of “Sisters of the Sea”, a 5 piece group of women musicians. They take turns leading their own original songs. These are heartfelt and inspired tunes, and this group is amazing. This is not the only music we are fortunate enough to hear, we also make out way to the astounding grounds of the Kawani resort where there is an entire festival of women performers. There is a huge range of styles and genres, yet always a theme of authenticity and gratitude. There are thought provoking lyrics and stories about oppression and liberation, growing up and getting empowered, the earth and the sky. I feel alive and inspired by such incredible artists.
Further down the coast, Uncle Robert’s night market brings a quaint and quiet coast vibrantly alive. It is bustling with sights, sounds, and smells you would not believe. The place is packed with people who are eager to catch the incredible live music, food shops, and craft vendors. The high energy is palpable, surging through the dance floor. People of all ages gather and share in the joy of this exuberant, loving community.
Part of this little getaway was also getting some serious yard work done. I am learning so many new skills, and now find myself chainsawing trees and cutting branches. It is of course not without fear and always with all the proper safety gear. This experiences pushes me outside my ever-expanding comfort zone, challenging me to grow. With the adventure mentality I am ready, willing, and thus-liberated.
One final errand to complete on the way out is to get the oil changed on the truck. We find a great deal, at Sears of all places. I am actually surprised to find them still in business. As we went in to pay, there was a full on lion dance happening in celebration on the Chinese New Year. I think to my self “Only in Hawaii, I am so grateful to be here”.
These are a few of the happenin’ places in Hilo.
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