Hoo-RAE!: Can’t stop, won’t stop

Typical+Zoom+hula+night+with+my+kumu+hula+and+hula+sisters%21+I+miss+everyone+so+much%21

Photo by Lauren Kalama

Typical Zoom hula night with my kumu hula and hula sisters! I miss everyone so much!

By Lauren Kalama, staff writer

Now, what do you do when you can’t dance at hālau? You dance together using the app Zoom.

Throughout the past couple of weeks, my kumu hula has continued to have regular papa, but online. Many of us are saddened that we aren’t able to physically be with each other, but that doesn’t stop us from dancing and catching up with one another.

For many, including myself, this week has been a little difficult due to the cancellation of the Merrie Monarch Festival, as last night would have been Miss Aloha Hula night. Right about now, my hālau would be in Hilo preparing for the days to come. Unfortunately, this virus had other plans for us, and that is okay.

All I can say is that I miss hula very much, not only the dancing, but being with my kumu and hula sisters during the week. I know many of you feel the same way with either sports or other activities. It’s hard right now.

As it is a difficult time, I’m trying my best to stay positive. I’m very thankful to have technology though, so that there still is a way to dance with my hula sisters. Of course, it’s not the same, but it’ll do for now.

Although we are all cooped up in our houses, it won’t stop me from dancing, so it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying what you always do. We just have to find a way to make it work.

I know I always talk about being optimistic or positive, but that’s because what else can I do? LOL.

If there’s anything I want you to take away from this, it’s that even though we go through many battles throughout life, I just hope that you never forget that it can always get better. You just can’t let it stop you, so don’t.

I have to go though! I have Zoom hula tonight! A hui hou!