Another amazing day in paradise! Today we traveled an hour and a half to Punaluu Black sand beach and had a chat with two Hawaiian activists. The first activist (Pali Kapu Dedman) also is a fisherman and a coffee farmer. He spoke very passionately about some of the problems with the way the limited land here is being used. He showed us a steamboat dock that was destroyed by a tidal wave and never removed, it is just out on the pier. He spoke to us about how changing the environment changes you as a person and that is why a lot of the natives are having problems with all of these changes they stated that some of these changes have ruined their spiritual connection and they are now unable to enjoy and pray the way they once could. Even individual owners are blocking off public property to try and make some money. He made a very valid point that endangered species have laws to protect them and land to live on but Hawaiians don't have either. Then Rocky (the artist/activist) told us some history of what makes them unique. After we listened to these men we went to the beach, the water was too cold and strong for me, it was pretty cloudy by the time we were able to swim anyways. I did get to see some sea turtles on shore resting. Today was a slow laid back day and I am still exhausted. I wish I had my friends and family here to share this experience with. By the way, the girl here in the picture with me is Heidi my roommate! She is amazing, we get along great! Look hard for the picture with the sea turtle.
L
