Chasing Orchid: Toto, I Don't Think We're in Chicago Anymore!

I knew before I moved here that Maui was a laid back place, friendly and relaxed. I just didn’t realize how friendly it really is. I’m absolutely amazed! Back in Chicago, people were undeniably rude; it was the way of life there. Everywhere I went, they were honking their horns, flipping the bird or yelling some nasty curse at their fellow residents. Maui is nothing like that.

Sure, there are still rude and obnoxious people here, they’re everywhere after all. It’s just not as prevalent (not to mention most of the rude ones happen to be tourists). One thing a lot of locals do in Hawaii is hug. Hug!!! Wait a minute…I don’t hug as a general rule. I like my personal space. I only hug my nearest and dearest friends.

I’ve never been a touchy feely type of girl. If I’m very comfortable with the people I’m around I have not one bit of trouble giving hugs and kisses freely. However, if I’m just meeting someone or I am in a professional situation, hugs are nowhere in the forefront of my mind as a greeting.

The first time I encountered the hug, I was at my new place of employ. I met my immediate bosses. I was introducing myself and as I got ready to stick out my hand to proffer the typically accepted handshake, I found myself being hugged. I was completely startled. My bosses were hugging me…what’s wrong with this picture? I regained my composure quickly and we went about our business. But after I left I thought about it some more. I figured it was probably just a one time thing, not something people here do all the time.

Boy was I wrong. My next destination…looking at a cottage to rent. The woman I was going to potentially rent from happened to be a colleague of mine. I had talked to her a few times on the phone and finally had a chance to meet her. Wouldn’t you know, as soon as I got face to face with her, another hug. At that point it dawned on me…hmm maybe it’s not an unusual thing to hug here.

I didn’t know if I was going to be comfortable with that but I figured I’d better get used to it. Now, almost a month into living here, while I’m still not completely enthused by such actions, it no longer shocks me nor makes me feel uncomfortable. Maui’s hug is Chicago’s handshake.

The locals (of which I am one now I guess) exude a warmth that is genuine. Everywhere I wander, there is always someone smiling or saying hello to me. That’s something I’d never find on a regular basis in Chicago. Saying hello in Chicago is likely to get you (at the very least) a dirty look.

I admit, while I was surprised at this friendliness, I can honestly say I don’t think I’ve stopped smiling since I arrived here. So far it’s met if not beaten my expectations. The aloha spirit is real…I hope everyone gets a chance to experience something like that in their lifetime.

So to the Valley Isle and its exquisite beauty and charming people…Mahalo. *smiles*