There was a time in my life when I felt a bit out of place in my own hometown of Hilo, Hawaii. I mean, Hilo is gorgeous—filled with lush landscapes, friendly faces, and the soothing sound of waves crashing on the shore. But as a kid, I couldn’t help but feel that this lovely little town was just a tad too small for my big dreams. I longed for the excitement of a bustling city, where tall buildings soared into the sky and life moved at a thrilling pace. It seemed like a whole world full of possibilities was waiting for me just a few islands away.

I remember standing in my backyard, staring out at the ocean, dreaming about life in a big city. I pictured busy streets, people rushing everywhere, and all that incredible energy—something that felt so far removed from the relaxed vibe of Hilo. While my friends talked about our favorite local beaches and parks, I found myself daydreaming about what it would be like to walk through crowded city streets, surrounded by strangers with intriguing stories of their own.

As I made my way through high school, that feeling grew stronger. I found myself wishing I could experience life beyond Hilo, imagining new adventures and opportunities that seemed to lie just out of reach. I realized the career path I wanted to follow required a vibrant atmosphere more in line with city life. With every passing year, the urge to explore the city became more compelling, leading me to a pivotal moment: after graduating high school, I took a leap of faith and moved to Honolulu.

Let me tell you, it was a huge change. When I arrived in Honolulu, I felt a rush of excitement mixed with a touch of nerves. The bright lights and towering skyscrapers were unlike anything I’d ever seen, and I could practically feel the city pulsating with life. Living in Honolulu felt liberating—like I had finally found my place. The vibrant culture, diverse neighborhoods, and eclectic mix of people were everything I had dreamed of. I soaked it all in, and for the first time, I truly felt like I belonged.

It’s been over 30 years since I made Oahu my home, and I’ve loved embracing everything that a bustling city life has to offer—the opportunities, the amazing food scene, and the countless activities to dive into. But you know, even amid all that excitement, I couldn’t shake the memories of my upbringing.

Here’s the funny thing: as I settled into my big city life, I found myself reflecting on my roots more and more. Every time I visited Hilo, I started to appreciate things I had once taken for granted. The breathtaking scenery, the slower pace, and the close-knit community began to resonate with me differently. Strolling through those familiar streets brought a wave of nostalgia, reminding me of how those experiences shaped who I am today.

Now, whenever I find myself back in Hilo, I carry the essence of both my city adventures and my small-town roots with me. I’ve come to recognize that both places have played significant roles in shaping my life. Hilo taught me about community, connection, and the beauty of nature, while Honolulu fueled my ambition and passion for growth.

So, if you ever feel out of place, remember that it’s all part of your unique journey. Those feelings of restlessness and longing can lead you to new experiences, ignite your dreams, and help you discover where you truly belong. And no matter how far life takes you, a piece of home will always travel with you, reminding you of where you came from and the stories that shaped you along the way.