HiP 072 Feature – Leis to the Sea: Traditions of Return
Title: “Leis to the Sea: Traditions of Return”
In the heart of the Pacific, a tradition as old as the gentle island breeze whispers through the lush landscapes of Hawaii. Legend has it that throwing the flowers from your Hawaiian lei into the ocean ensures a return to these paradisiacal shores. This act, steeped in culture and folklore, draws parallels to similar rituals worldwide, such as the iconic Trevi Fountain in Rome.
As tourists gaze upon the Trevi Fountain, coins gleam in the water, echoing a wish to return to the Eternal City. Similarly, in Hawaii, the delicate petals of a lei are cast into the ocean, carrying the hope of a future reunion with the islands. These traditions share a common thread, weaving dreams of homecoming into the fabric of cultural practices.
Beyond the enchanting tradition of returning to Hawaii, the act of tossing a flower lei into the ocean holds diverse meanings, resonating with emotions that ripple far beyond the shorelines. For some, it becomes a poignant part of memorial services, a gesture to honor and remember those who have departed. In a solemn tribute, the petals float on the surface, carrying with them the love and cherished memories of those who once graced the islands. The Hawaiian tradition also finds a profound connection with somber occasions, such as paying respects at the hallowed Pearl Harbor’s Arizona Memorial. Here, the lei becomes a symbol of remembrance, gently cast upon the waters to acknowledge the sacrifice and bravery of those who rest beneath the waves. Additionally, it serves as a gentle farewell to lost loved ones, the fragrant blooms serving as messengers of love and closure in the vast expanse of the ocean. In these moments, the lei transforms into a vessel of solace, bridging the realms of the living and the departed with a timeless expression of connection and reverence.
However, as the world becomes more environmentally conscious, a subtle reminder emerges: when participating in this Hawaiian custom, it’s best to untie the lei and toss the flowers separately. Preserving the delicate marine ecosystem is as crucial as honoring tradition. The string, if left intact, could harm the vibrant underwater life, echoing the importance of sustainable cultural practices.
In the rhythmic dance of waves and the ocean’s embrace, lies a metaphorical journey. The poem weaves this sentiment:
Leis to the Sea – by Tom e Stokes
Amidst the azure, where sea and sky entwine,
A lei’s petals set adrift, a wish, a sign.
Untie the strands, let the flowers free,
A dance with waves, a call to destiny.
In Rome, coins dive, wishes take flight,
Hawaii echoes, under the pale moonlight.
Yet, with lei in hand, a mindful toss,
A promise made, without environmental loss.
As the waves carry blooms, a poetic sea,
A return assured, like the tide’s decree.
From shore to shore, on waves of grace,
The lei’s journey mirrors life’s endless embrace.
In the essence of these traditions, the ties to home are never truly severed. Whether through coins or petals, the echoes of cultures reverberate across oceans, connecting hearts to distant shores.
Written by Tom e Stokes (January 26, 2024)