It’s been a sad 12 hours in Kaaawa. I heard the first helicopter sometime after 4 p.m. and assumed it was a medivac flight landing at Swanzy Beach Park. But the sounds continued. When I realized the Coast Guard and police helicopters were criss crossing the area, it was clear they were searching. And the Advertiser added a breaking news update a bit later in the evening about a missing 16-year old who was swimming with friends when he got into trouble. The friends got back to shore, he didn’t. We don’t know yet if it’s someone from our small community, but I’m sure we’ll find out soon when we go out walking. The Coast Guard continued through most of the night, although I haven’t heard the helicopter yet since getting up.

In any case, I suppose if you’re waiting to be rescued, the whine of an approaching helicopter is a wonderful sound. But knowing that they’re probably seeking to recover the body of a victim who most likely lived nearby, it’s a very sad song indeed.

Meanwhile, we’re heading off this morning with Ray, my brother-in-law, whose ashes were mailed to me several months ago from the mortuary in California. Today, weather permitting, we’re joining my sister to take a short run in my dad’s boat and scatter Ray in the ocean off Diamond Head.

It makes for a somewhat somber morning.
Perhaps I’ll just let the thoughts echo for now.