A few weeks back, we had our minds on the snow, and the poetry of the season. Well today, as many of you are undoubtedly still dealing with the frigid realities of winter, we thought we would jump into a very different state of mind. Close your eyes and picture the white sandy beaches of a tropical island.
To take us there, we found a perfect soundtrack, the beautiful artistry of the late Hawaiian singer/songwriter Israel Kamakawiwoʻole. “Brudda IZ,” as he was known to the locals, is most famous for his stirring rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow (over 1 billion YouTube views!!!). But he had many hits, and today we share with you another favorite, “White Sandy Beach of Hawai'i.”
IZ died in 1997 at the age of 38. He and his family struggled with chronic obesity, and he knew his time on Earth would likely be short. But he was determined to pack whatever he was given with the joy of music.
In the video shared here he talked about his view of death, with a smile and a laugh. We have transcribed his comments below. It is a poignant introduction to the song that follows.
I was scared when I lost my mother, my father, my brother, my sister. I loved them, all my heart and soul. It was time for them for go, it was time for go. When our time come, cuz, don’t cry for me, cuz. Don’t cry for me. Go plant a tree in Kapiolani Park, in the middle of the park where they play soccer. Plant a koa tree [endemic tree to Hawaii] for me cuz. A big brother. And, well, plant them small, let them grow big.
You may have noticed that many of our Smiles for a Saturday can also draw some misty eyes. Tears and smiles often are intertwined when we are moved. We think this performance is no exception.
“Plant them small, let them grow big.” Isn’t that the very definition of hope, and love? We hope you enjoy.
White Sandy Beach
One of my favorites! I lived on Oahu for two and a half years and IZ was Hawaii❤️
Lovely, totally enjoyable. Thank you so much for exposing me to new and wonderful things‼️ GOD bless.