Reflections from the East West Center Visit

Reflections from the East West Center Visit with High School Children from Nānākuli & Hiroshima, Japan for their Global Youth Leadership Program August 2015:

“The farm-based workshop and reception/welcome you hosted were truly memorable. For many of our students from Hiroshima, this was their first experience on a farm and they were delighted to see the many different plants, fruit, and vegetables that are grown at Hoa ‘Āina. Through pounding pa’i’ai, preparing lau lau, clearing the peace garden, and planting the seedlings, the Nānākuli and Hiroshima students were able to begin building friendships with each other through sharing parts of their own culture and working side-by-side. From the first time we came to visit Hoa ʻĀina O Mākaha, we noticed the tangible sense of peace that pervades the farm. That is no doubt a reflection of you as well as your staff and volunteers, and the time and efforts that you have put into making the farm such a hospitable and welcoming place.

In closing, let me say that without your involvement in the key facets of our programming in West Oahu, we could not have provided such a rich and memorable experience for our students – both Hiroshima and Nānākuli! Also, I should add that the Hiroshima students were all wearing the necklaces they received from you when they boarded the plane for Hiroshima. They are taking their seeds of peace back home with them.” — Namji, Director

“Today I learned about the importance of unity. We meditated to find our mana (power or spirit) that is inside us, and we set it for all eyes to see in the mural. It showed us that all of our personal thoughts and ideas can make something truly wonderful. It was a great experience painting and having fun with everyone, and I wish to do it again. Thank you very much.” — Cayenne, Nānākuli

“Today I was very happy to paint with everyone. As the mural represented PEACE I felt that I am making a difference while painting, from laughing and collaborating with my Japanese friends. From this experience I learned that I can make friends from everywhere, no matter what everyone looks like. I hope I can do this again.” — Sarissa, Nānākuli

“It need power of many people to make a big picture, so I learned that it need many people’s help, feelings, and actions to create peaceful world.
I learned it from Mr. Prime.
I thought that peaceful world is fun because I was fun when I made a picture” — Miwa, Hiroshima

“Peace Mural
I really appreciated to Mr. Prime.
I learned that if there are many people, we can make big wonderful things.
And also I impressed we can explain peace even by painting.
Nanakuli School
I enjoyed spending time with Nānākuli students.
My best memory with them was having lunch at farm.
I knew many things about their lifestyle and school.
I won’t forget these memories!!”  — Rino, Hiroshima