05-28-2009, 07:19 AM
Devany,
Yes, still in Paukaa.
I should also say that Rob's story and Tom's story were very much what I think is normal for a community. Very much like where I grew up and the other places I've lived. Your neighbor is whoever you cross paths with, not simply determined by address. I just haven't experienced much of that out here from locals. The welcoming has come mostly from transplants.
The reason I wanted to post on this thread to offer an alternative viewpoint of a non-white person from the Mainland that is new to Hawaii. Because of where I grew up (non-white in the middle of Kansas) I think I'm pretty tuned in to other folks. I can sense the difference between when people are giving a "hello neighbor" vibe versus "you don't belong here".
However I do keep in mind regarding the Hawaii experience is that I'm a visitor even though we live here. Meaning we will likely only be here for another few years, unless something unforeseen happens. We came here for a unique career opportunity, not because it was a lifelong dream to live in Hawaii. I'm not saying we were reluctant, only that we didn't feel a "calling" and approached it pretty neutral.
We did think of it as a great opportunity to experience a very different part of the USA; and we've certainly gotten that.
Yes, still in Paukaa.
I should also say that Rob's story and Tom's story were very much what I think is normal for a community. Very much like where I grew up and the other places I've lived. Your neighbor is whoever you cross paths with, not simply determined by address. I just haven't experienced much of that out here from locals. The welcoming has come mostly from transplants.
The reason I wanted to post on this thread to offer an alternative viewpoint of a non-white person from the Mainland that is new to Hawaii. Because of where I grew up (non-white in the middle of Kansas) I think I'm pretty tuned in to other folks. I can sense the difference between when people are giving a "hello neighbor" vibe versus "you don't belong here".
However I do keep in mind regarding the Hawaii experience is that I'm a visitor even though we live here. Meaning we will likely only be here for another few years, unless something unforeseen happens. We came here for a unique career opportunity, not because it was a lifelong dream to live in Hawaii. I'm not saying we were reluctant, only that we didn't feel a "calling" and approached it pretty neutral.
We did think of it as a great opportunity to experience a very different part of the USA; and we've certainly gotten that.