Teen finds deeper faith in O’ahu

“We buried each other in the sand,” she said. “Salt water does not taste good.”

She recently returned from the United Church of Christ National Youth Event on the island of O’ahu where she spent her time helping the environment, learning Hawaiian culture and bolstering her faith.

The mission pulls some 500 teens together every four years with activities centered on faith, leadership, service and social justice. It’s an honor to go.

And what message did she take away?

She said she is now more able to express her religious and moral beliefs.

“It’s ok to take chances,” Baumgarten said. “We need to stand up for what we believe is right. It’s like school and you know the answer, but you’re afraid to raise your hand. You need to raise your hand. It’s ok to not be shy or timid anymore.”

Baumgarten learned this lesson during her time in Hawaii, June 26-29.

But first things first. She had to learn the Hulu dance, originally a war dance.

She learned the art of lei making. And here’s a little inside information. Flowers worn in the hair mean a lot she said.

A flower in the hair on the right means single. A flower on the left means in a relationship and a flower in the middle of the hair means undecided.

She also learned of the Kukui nut and its many uses and its mythology in the Hawaiian culture. The oil-laden fruit was good for burning, providing light and chasing away darkness.

It has grown to symbolize enlightenment, knowledge, and learning.

Baumgarten also traveled to Na Mae Kupono Lo’l Kalo on the north side of the Island where they teach “love of the land.”

There, she pulled invasive weeds on the protected native land and was able to swim in the ponds.

It was not easy getting there either. Baumgarten raised money for months, speaking to local groups such as the Kiwanis Club of The Dalles and Chapter Q of PEO.

She made note cards with her own art and sold them to help pay her way on the adventure.