Our trip to Hawaii was unimaginable, so much more than I expected. The beauty of the Islands can not be captured in pictures. The road to Hana, the big surf, the ocean cliffs, the list goes on and on. But one of the most interesting aspects of the trip came from a tour guide named Peter Vincent. His words of wisdom, knowledge of the people, and their customs was truly fascinating.
We met him in Honolulu, outside of a mall, sitting in his van with a little sign saying tour of the Island. We climbed in and got one of the best tours I've ever experienced. He told us how his people lived, about their customs, their family life, how they live, marry, eat, and govern themselves. He also took us to see the sights, but that is another story.
What was fascinating to me was how they live off of the land. He pointed out plant after plant and talked of how they are prepared. Almost everywhere there were edible plants, most of which I have never heard of and most were quite tasty. We stopped along the side of the road again and again to pick and taste. Sorry I could never remember all the names of the plants and fruits but he explained that all they had to buy were a couple of food items from the stores, a car and a house and of coarse insurance. What I found really amazing was the fact that he hunted wild Boar with only a dog and his knife. He said to use a gun would be disrespectful to the animal. He showed off the scars on his legs and arms from some encounters with Boars, and explained that his ancestors had been hunting this way for generations.
They have a great respect for the land, ocean, plants and animals that I haven't seen anywhere else. They truly love their little piece of paradise and it showed. So to Peter, I can not thank you enough, you showed me a new way to look at the world. May your family and friends live long and fruitful lives.
