Hawaiian Waterfall Offerings

Continuing on with my mini course on how various cultures honor nature is to construct a temporary altar, a one-time sacred space in the trees, woods, meadows, mountains, streams, or by the seashore. When I vacationed in Maui, I took a walk in the forest by a majestic waterfall. Plummeting down from a high mountain into a lush, tropical rainforest, the water ended up flowing into a deep, indigo-colored pool. Pausing by the pool to admire its beauty, I spied evidence of recent human activity A small statue of a goddess stood in the shadows of a stone ledge. Several orchid leis lovingly encircled the figurine, mimicking the rings of water that formed in a pool. Clay dishes filled with fruit—pineapples, melons, etc., grilled fish, and Maui onions were set in front of the deity as if she were dining at an Olympian feast. Such a perfect offering in an exquisite setting! I invite you to establish your own one-time altar, and if you like it, post a photo. I’d love to share your creativity.