Monday, February 13, 2012

Diamondhead

I always knew about Diamondhead the way I always knew about the Empire State building. Its so imbedded into our American story that I can't remember a time when I did not know what it was, and like seeing the empire state building for the first time and recognizing it instantly, I recognized Diamondhead the moment I laid eyes on it from Waikiki Beach. There is a weird thrill when you see a place you know but have never been to. It happend in New York, Paris, London, and especially in Hawaii. Living on an island you get to know the lay of the land pretty well. The landmarks become very familiar and your eye automatically searches for them when you are in their proximity. Diamondhead is the big Kahuna of landmarks. The local people don't give directions by saying east, west, north and south, they say Diamondhead, Ewa, Mauka and Makai. It really makes sense once you get the hang of it. I even managed to hike up Diamondhead a few times while we were there and I am glad I did the views were worth the climb.