By Eileen Cain

A beautiful day in paradise blessed our hike to Ka'ena Point, the westernmost tip of O'ahu. The hike was inspired by Chas DiCapua's "Climb the Mountain Event" for Summer 2001 to raise money for the future Hawai'i Insight Meditation Center. Chas planned to climb Mount Denali [see his story on p. 1], and he encouraged others to carry out similar events during the summer in sync with his climb and in support of the HIMC. Events were planned in other parts of the country [see opposite page]. Since we weren't prepared for mountain-climbing, we sought sponsors for a hike on July 21, 2001. Hikers included teachers Michele and Steven, organizers Wally and Kay Inglis, Xuan and Thanh Huynh, Michael Zucker, Jake Davis, me, and two visitors.

The trail to Ka'ena winds along the shore of O'ahu. The coastal lava rock, black with streaks of red, records the story of the volcanic origins of this island and contrasts beautifully with the clear, sparkling blue-green waters of the Pacific. It is such a gift to be able to hike beside the ocean!

The generosity of those who sponsored hikers enabled us to raise over $1,500.00 for the HIMC. Many thanks to all who supported us.