Lots of people dream of moving to Hawai’i. A few people do, most of them turn back. I now understand why.
My plan seemed simple enough. Spend the summer driving around the Big Island with Wildcat. Find a charming little town, then an apartment, settle down. My intention: reflection & healing. After so many years in the corporate world, an opportunity at a new start. 1)“Know Thyself!” exclaimed Socrates. This theme, Self-Knowledge, traces back at least as far the Ancient Egyptians, and from Upanishads, to Rumi, to Whitman, reverberates across cultures & ages. It even includes a cameo in The Matrix. How few of us make time to truly know our selves these days.. And is the world without, simply a reflection of the world within?
Six stitches, four car towings, two ER visits, one dislocated rib, a bout of pancreatitis later.. I can summarily say, it was the summer of hurdles. Clearly this island isn’t going to welcome just anybody – I must be tested. 2)I’ll admit, I almost resigned from this incarnation of the adventure back in August. In mock defiance of the Universe, which had so clearly drawn me to Hawai’i, I started brainstorming other places to call home: “Truckee!” I thought. “I like Tahoe..” I spent the evening before my annual pilgrimage to Burning Man, browsing places on Zillow. The very next morning, now on the mainland and fervently packing my bm ride, a random stranger walks up to me: “Have you ever been to the Big Island?” I feign ignorance. He continues by professing all the virtues of living there – “the energy!” – and ends with “I’m a healer. If didn’t have to be here, on the mainland hustling, I’d be there with my family”. Hands me his business card and walks off. If you believe in messages from the Universe, this one seemed rather direct.
It’s now been a couple months in one spot. Home is a little balinese bungalow, walking distance to the beach.3)Hawai’i, another very interesting housing market. There is an abundance of short term rentals, a healthy housing market, and practically no long-term rentals in between. As luck would have it, after searching the whole island, a bungalow presented itself very close to one of my first island stays. In complete disarray, it took three more weeks to make livable. I share it with at least a half dozen geckos. The people I meet continue to amaze me with their warmth, wisdom & kindness. Dolphins swim into the bay most mornings – they play, feed, sleep, then return for more play. Good inspiration & company.
I have a routine! Finally, time and energy to devote towards my intention. It feels like I’m making progress.
Ω
Footnotes
| 1. | ↑ | “Know Thyself!” exclaimed Socrates. This theme, Self-Knowledge, traces back at least as far the Ancient Egyptians, and from Upanishads, to Rumi, to Whitman, reverberates across cultures & ages. It even includes a cameo in The Matrix. How few of us make time to truly know our selves these days.. And is the world without, simply a reflection of the world within? |
| 2. | ↑ | I’ll admit, I almost resigned from this incarnation of the adventure back in August. In mock defiance of the Universe, which had so clearly drawn me to Hawai’i, I started brainstorming other places to call home: “Truckee!” I thought. “I like Tahoe..” I spent the evening before my annual pilgrimage to Burning Man, browsing places on Zillow. The very next morning, now on the mainland and fervently packing my bm ride, a random stranger walks up to me: “Have you ever been to the Big Island?” I feign ignorance. He continues by professing all the virtues of living there – “the energy!” – and ends with “I’m a healer. If didn’t have to be here, on the mainland hustling, I’d be there with my family”. Hands me his business card and walks off. If you believe in messages from the Universe, this one seemed rather direct. |
| 3. | ↑ | Hawai’i, another very interesting housing market. There is an abundance of short term rentals, a healthy housing market, and practically no long-term rentals in between. As luck would have it, after searching the whole island, a bungalow presented itself very close to one of my first island stays. In complete disarray, it took three more weeks to make livable. |
We are truly our own co-creators. Fabulous that you’ve empowered yourself through these challenges. Keep up the masterful work Kimon. It is inspiring and empowering for us all!
Indeed. It is truly amazing what one can co-create. Thank you for all the support and encouragement. It’s really helped to have friends as neighbors!
Thanks for sharing
Some added context. The share you recently tagged me in really did come at a good time
“Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves” – Thoreau 🙂 Good luck Kimon – you’re on an amazing journey
“Lost, in Hawai’i” was the post’s original working title ^^ With that, I might just switch back. Thank you for your words of encouragement Hailey 🙂
Look at that view — and I suspect that the internal view of self is equally as amazing. Hang in Kimon! We’ve got your back. The challenges don’t get any easier once you settle in :), but it’s a hellova’ way to to. <3
So sweet, Zae. My back feels very well protected. As with your stories when you first move to the island, a right of passage, and totally worth it, to be sure <3
What is the story behind geckos colors? Are you becoming one yet?
This particular variety of gecko was imported (somewhat unintentionally, I suspect) from the Caribbean.
Grateful to hear how you’re doing, @Kimon. Wishing you health & happiness!
Thank you Dave! Determined to see another year. Ideally, I even get a little more settled, with guest bedrooms for friends.
Beautiful and insightful website Kimon!
The photos are fun, particularly the one of you and I, I am a chubby fellow; have TB, Two Bellies. LOL!
The photo of the gecko looking up at you is my favorite!
Aloha Blessings Be Yours!
Loved having you and Zae over for dinner. That’s your natural stature and authority you’re noting in that picture. Working on some of my own LOL
Anytime you feel like getting out of the house, you two, always welcome over.
Aloha and Blessings Be, to You and Yours!
Beautiful sharing, Kimon Madame Pele can put you through a lot here AND she also knows you love and appreciate this place. I’m sure you are welcomed and protected
Thank you, Tiki. Working on getting on her good side. One thing is for sure, you do *not* mess with Madame Pele. Always so nice crossing paths, virtually, and in the real world. Come visit more often! ❤️☺️
OK! And let me know when you can visit this here 🌈🌴🌈
<3 the pics & enjoyed hearing how you've been. Sounds like one heck of an adventure!
So true man. Bit of a scramble, glad to have finally made it up for air. You make island livin’ look so easy! LOL
You look so happy! We are glad you are over those bumps in
the road and enjoying life in your new home.
Thank you, Gai. Indeed, so good to feel a little more settled. At least for the time being. Your & Scott’s travels continue to inspire!
I was going to write you today when I saw this show up in my feed. The universe does send messages! 😉
It’s great to get some news and see some photos. Are you still staying at Kalani?
Ha. The universe does work in mysterious ways. Kalani is such a great vacation destination.. decided to ad-venture out and explore the island. Certainly spiced things up!
glad to see a positive turn in your journey
thanks Wendell. me too. minimized computer time and all around working on being extra kind to my wrists 🙏🏼
Glad you are finding peace and happiness here