Palmyra Reflections: Keala Kai

Aloha kākou,

For me, when I first entered the Palmyra lagoon, my initial impression was that this must be how the atoll had looked for thousands of years.

However, during our stay there, I happen to stumble on some of the photo journals showing the history of Palmyra and realized that it had been misused and abused for many years, especially between the years 1940 to 1945. After the way, the cleaning efforts were basically throwing and dumping everything into the lagoon.

What impressed me most, though, was that over the last sixty years nature has done its part in the rebuilding of an ecosystem that is found nowhere else on earth.  I realize just how hard nature is trying to pick up after us humans. And, how the animals and sea life together live in a totally natural state. When left alone, they truly set an example in sustainable living.

The animals have taken their place in doing their part. One night in one of my private moments, I made a promise  to a manta ray about doing my part in making this world a better place. Just as soon as I said that, the manta ray swam right by me and gave me a high five. Minutes later, the manta was followed by three more. A truly humbling experience. I had never touched a manta ray in my life, much less from shore. There was a baby manta just at the deep edge. He kept his distance. I only hope one day to return and gain his respect, too.

My best to you always. Mahalo and mālama pono

Keala Kai

Photos: Keala Kai
Music: Ho‘onu‘a