This is a common saying in Hawaii that many people believe in, whether you are Hawaiian or you just live here. I do not have any Hawaiian ancestry, yet I find it important to surround myself with the Hawaiian culture and values. Well, at least my parents thought it was important when they first enrolled me in a Hālau at the age of 4. A Hālau is a hula school where I learned the art and history of hula for almost a decade of my life. Some people may think that hula is just girls in grass skirts dancing to the Hukilau, but in reality it is so much more.

Hula was my first hobby ever and left quite an impression on how I define my character today. As a timid child, I walked into the hula studio as a tiny seedling and left as a blossoming flower with a new perspective of the world we live in. For me, dancing came naturally and my Kumu (hula teacher) instilled discipline and respect within me and my hula sisters. Hula is enjoyable, but I also realize that I am portraying the stories of the Hawaiian people. When dancing, I felt a connection to the mauka (mountains) and makai (ocean) as I flowed through the movements. My Kumu always reminded us that if you give respect, you will receive it. 

As I grew older, new hula sisters entered the class and I made it my responsibility to look out for them. Whether it had been putting on lipstick two minutes before we rushed on stage,  or quickly running a dance, you could count on me. No one had asked me to take on that leadership role, but I was the oldest and most experienced in my class-- this later resulted in my Kumu giving me the nickname Master Shifu. Yes, this silly nickname is from “Kung Fu Panda,” but for me it was a compliment of leadership to be a role model for the younger girls. Now, I recognize that after all these years I still strive to help others in need. At one point, I even wanted to become a Kumu hula one day, though shifted to wanting to pursue a career in elementary education or the medical field. There are so many pathways that focus on helping others, which I have discovered to be my greatest passion. 

Because I am deeply rooted with respect, discipline, and responsibility, I apply those traits in other aspects of life. Hula didn’t last forever for me, but what I learned there has a lifelong impact. I’m not saying that hula and the Hawaiian culture has made me a perfect person; it has given me the roots and foundation of a tree that continues to blossom. I have made various mistakes in early adolescence, however, I still return to my core values.  Like most teenagers, I sometimes procrastinate or forget things, yet I know my strong sense of discipline will keep me striving towards my goals and on a path of success.

  Unexpectedly, a hobby that I once did for fun became the most inspiring period of my life. Moving forward, I will stay true to my roots and expand my branches towards the sky of limitless potential. Hawaii is more than the stereotypical paradise that tourists admire; the culture is rich with knowledge.