On Memorial Day, about 40,000 people gathered at Ala Moana Beach Park to be a part of the annual Lantern Floating ceremony. With Japanese taiko performances and gospel singing, it wasn't quite the somber ceremony one might expect, but it was pretty awe inspiring just to be in the presence of so many people. People could make a small donation to receive these floating paper lanterns. I saw messages written out to fathers & mothers, grandparents, sibling, friends, and even pets. Some of these lanterns were decorated with flowers, others with drawings done by young children.
Here's a few photos that John and I took from that night. It was nice to see so many people remembering their loved ones. Although going to an event like this makes you miss the family and friends you've lost, it also makes you more appreciative of the ones that are still with you. =)
My mom has been to this before, through her temple (there's a branch in HI). She says it's really moving to be there. I'd love to see it one day. Really beautiful pics!
ReplyDeleteI wish we had made it out to this! Truth be told we didn't feel up to dealing with all teh people. Lovely pictures!
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