Time to Practice Aloha

Pavilions, 3/15/2020

As of this morning, seven people have been confirmed with the Covid-19 virus in the state of Hawaii. Four of these are on the island of Kauai. Measures are underway to isolate and contain these. Each was introduced from visitors.

Health officials announced that more cases are inevitable. Events throughout the islands are being canceled. Hawaiian Airlines has reduced flights to and from the islands. Public gathering places including schools are being closed.

In an effort to keep shoppers from over-buying supplies, officials are asking islanders to show compassion for others. That announcement had a familiar ring of "aloha" that islanders generally embrace.

Adding to the situation, flash flood warnings are being issued for the entire week. Kauai is expected to be bombarded with rain, according to weather guru Guy Hagi. A westerly storm, a Kona, is forecast to sit for days over the north-western most islands, especially Kauai.

The supply chain of goods to the island will not be interrupted, according to latest reports.

The mantra is: We're all in this together. Which becomes clearer every day.

So we hunker down in our condo, hoping we have enough food and cleaning supplies. Wash our hands frequently. Read more. Practice yoga. Listen to community radio station KKCR that broadcasts from the island, with updates, local conversation and an eclectic range of music.

Yesterday Barbara and I drove to nearby Hanalei Bay understanding that it was the last day before the forecast storm. I was hoping to get in a surf session. The narrow road swings down into the lowlands of Hanalei crossing the single-lane bridge over the Hanalei River.

I continue to be overwhelmed by the magnificent green mountains and verdant landscape. I feel like we're entering Magic Land spread with taro patches, waving green grasses that nearly swallow the road from both sides, red earth and no concrete.

The small shops, restaurants and churches remain from an earlier era. Some are closed. Fewer vehicles are on the road, which is nice, at least temporarily.

At Pavilions, which has become my favorite spot -- where we practice tai chi on Saturday mornings -- the waves are closing out and rip currents have closed the beach to swimmers. Not the best for surfing. The locals are watching but not going out. The few on boards in the water are obviously inexperienced, flailing in the white water.

They have come from around the world to enjoy a few days on Kauai and feel what it's like to surf. They keep the island economy going. Hawaii depends on visitors. Many locals work for the tourist industry and their jobs and livelihood are threatened by the pandemic.

I feel fortunate that I can wait for better conditions. Although the direction of my IRA funds in the stock market goes down every day. And the prospect of a job on the island becomes more remote.

I decide to jump in the water and wash away worries. It feels great.

Aloha to all.