Aloha Lahaina,
It is with a heavy heart and a profound sense of shared sorrow that I reach out to you from across the ocean, from the beautiful shores of Oahu. It's been over one week since the news of the devastating fire that has swept through your cherished town and many included myself have been left speechless, grappling to comprehend the immense loss and grief that you are enduring. The depth of devastation is beyond our comprehension, but please know that distance cannot diminish our empathy and solidarity.
Lahaina, a place of vibrant beauty, welcoming shores, and a close-knit community, has been tested in the most tragic of ways. The devastation caused by the flames that engulfed your homes and altered your lives is a stark reminder of the fragility of our existence and the unpredictable nature of our world.
Even though I am separated from you by miles, the bond of aloha that unites our islands runs deep across our oceans. The strength of Lahaina has always been in the resilience of its people, the symbol of hope that runs through its banyan tree, and the indomitable spirit we've seen in the last week rise from the depths of adversity.
As you begin to pick up the pieces and look toward the future, please know that Oahu stands beside you as a pillar of support and compassion. We share your pain, your grief, and your determination to rebuild. While the road ahead may seem daunting, the spirit of Lahaina will guide you, and the outpouring of love from across the islands will lift you.
Together, we will restore the beauty that once graced your streets, the homes that sheltered your families, and the memories that have woven the fabric of Lahaina's history. As the healing process begins, may you find solace in the unity of our islands, in the unwavering support of your neighbors, and in the strength that flows from the spirit of aloha.
It saddens me that admist such tragic disparity, comes the presence of greed. As we come together to support one another, I want to affirm my unwavering commitment to always uphold integrity, do the right thing, and stand against any actions driven by corporate interests that may further exacerbate the challenges your community faces.
I want you to know that my commitment goes beyond words – Some day after media settles I hope to fly over and lend a helping hand physically, assisting in any way necessary to aid in the recovery and rebuilding efforts. In the meantime I I will attach resources that are best ways for our community to help and will continue to spread the word for what is needed.
In times of darkness and ash, it is the light of hope that guides us. And so, even in the face of tragedy, I am confident that Lahaina will rise once more, more beautiful and more resilient than ever before. As a realtor I commit to stand next to you to keep the town of Lahaina in the hands to whom it belongs. The local spirit and resilience will be a story that future generations are proud to tell. The flames may have taken much, but they cannot extinguish the fire of love, community, and determination that burns within each and every one of you.
With the deepest condolences, unwavering support, and the enduring bond of aloha,
Love, Oahu
Reputable Resources if you would like to contribute to Maui:
Donate Directly to Families in Need: Master Google Sheet