What’s In a Name?

As many of you know, I’m working on the creation of SoulSpace Ranch, a property on the island of Maui that is an extension of the work I do on the “main land”. Although much of the work we’ll be doing there is based on the principles of the SoulSpace process I’ve decided to change the name and call it Ke Ao Lanihuli – which translates to “The light from the heavens to overturn old conditions bringing enlightenment.”

The reason for the name change has become apparent as I’ve gotten more clarity on the mission at hand.  There is so much more going on than the original vision of creating a healing center – as I understood it.

It has become clear that the restoration of the physical space – building and architecture – is to ensure the renewal of the land’s psychic energy and to honor the customs and traditions of the Hawaiian culture through our work. But there’s an even more important responsibility we carry.  We must play a part in re-uniting the people of this place to restore the rift between those who took possession of the land and the people & culture who it originally belonged to.

There is a great deal of unresolved anger and upset over what happened to the Hawaiians years ago — and this pain is still very much alive in those that hold the memory.

On my most recent trip to Maui I had to meet with the Community Board to present our project for approval. Several locals attended the open meeting and expressed resentment that the buildings on our property are slated to become historical monuments, with recognition from the state and federal government.

As I listened to their anger and heartbreak, I couldn’t help but feel compassionate and understanding with what they were saying.  Their points were clear; these monuments due to receive historical designation were built on stolen land. Where was the recognition of their heritage and culture?

In the heat of the public debate during the meeting, my contact at the historical department in the county offices said that this had never come up before during a process like this. “Only with you” he whispered knowingly and his words rang with resonant truth at that moment.  I felt like I was receiving another mantle of my life’s work related to this project.

I’m now committed to not only restoring this amazing piece of architecture and creating a healing center for the soul, but also to making it a place that will bring people together to facilitate the healing of a wound inflicted upon a culture and a way of life.

They say sunlight is the best disinfectant, so maybe we can help by shining that “light from the heavens”; for peace, for closure, for love.

I don’t know how it’s meant to unfold – but I’m committed to being a part of the solution.

So I better get to it –

Yours in the healing process,

XB