Voices from our ʻOhana
Thomas Anuhealii with ʻohana at Palehua
From Thomas Anuhealii:
Edmund Olson approached me while on a diligence site visit here at Palehua during the summer of 2009. He was accompanied by John Cross. We all met at the roadway entrance at LOT A where I have resided since 2004. A short time later, Ed and John came asking me the usual questions about what it takes to manage these lands day in and day out. So, I obliged them with my perspective and experience of what it takes to manage this ʻaina known as Palehua located on southeast slopes of Waianae Mountain Range. Once the land deal was completed between Campbell Estate and the Trust, I was introduced to the Edmund Olson Trust II team with the duties of “Palehua Ranger”.
One memorable moment that has stuck with me the most was the day while he was here on another site tour, Ed looked at me and said, “Anu I value what you do for this place and what you will continue to do for this place. I will always look out for you and your ohana’s best interest as I know you will do the same for the trust. If you ever need assistance don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly or to John Cross.” That was the beginning of our relationship and from that day on, it has been a big part of my journey in life, and it has been quite the wave to ride ever since.
In the driveway at LOT A and several meetings after with EOTII. Ed communicated to me a defined purpose to execute here at Palehua on behalf of the Trust. From that day, I was sure that I would be able to adapt and have creativity with what was being asked of me by Ed and the Trust. Many, many core memories were experienced by taking on this role and kuleana. Most importantly, I was able to raise a family with the fruits of my purpose here at Palehua. Without Ed my experience would not be the same. He offered me an opportunity in exchange for purpose. Anuhealii is very grateful to a great man, Edmund Olson, a great man... that took a chance on me as I did the same with him. One of the most impactful and generational decisions I personally have made for myself, ohana and those that have come along the way. A community of people shared and continue to share in the experience that makes us marvel in what the mana of this place can reveal to you. Mahalo Nui Ed and EOTII.
The EOTII has facilitated the opportunity for the lahui to thrive, here at Palehua and elsewhere. His support for Malama Learning Center, Leeward Kai Canoe Club, Trust for Public Lands, Friends of Honouliuli and countless other malama aina hui’s. With it, we now have more capacity to grow ourselves as a community because we have perspective. The view from Palehua, east, west, south, north... has given us all much to observe and reflect. Our action at the kai is a direct reflection on what transpires up mauka. EOTII has inspired many here at Palehua, the surrounding ahapua’a and those from far and far away. When the community comes to this wahi, they’re immersed in their observation and practices, and they leave with inspiration and purpose. Their perspective renewed through engagement with the mana of this wahi.
I hope that the Trust continues to support those that are on the lands that the Trust stewards and continues to provide opportunities for generations to come. The legacy and leadership that Ed personified must continue to help motivate and continue to grow the community. I think that the Trust’s future is one that will continue to have meaningful impact and serve as a beacon of hope for those that seek prosperity and goodwill through proper engagement upon the ʻAina.
Thomas Anuhealii with Troy Keolanui at OK Farms
Thomas Anuhealii, Palehua Ranger
Thomas Anuhealii with John Cross at Olson Trust reservoir