Day 3 Manaʻo for Cohort Waikolu March 18, 2026

Although our third day together at Kaʻākaukukui doesn’t include Pilina Circles, the reflections and stories that were shared were incredibly impactful. (Shoutout to you folks for continuing to honor our wonderful group agreements!) The stories shared in personal reflections, in pair shares, and in our new final groups seemed to bring a significant shift in energy. To me, this vibrant energy also represents the continuity of kūpuna and ʻāina that exists within all of us. 

As we have been learning more about kukui throughout this week together, it also seems fitting that there was baby Manuokū (fairy tern) watching over us from their perch on the branch of kukui above us. One thing I am inspired by today is the Manuokū and their ability to bear witness and be steadfast from their precarious vantage points, even as the ʻāina might change around us in the strong storm winds. Mahalo nui to our amazing friends at JABSOM and Cancer Center (many of whom have gone through this five-day cohort journey themselves) for hosting us today on your beautiful campus!