Happy Holidays!
Happy Holidays! To everyone who is a friend, a fan, family, or all of the above! I just returned from an amazing trip to Hawaii. I was visiting my friend, Lorenn Walker, renowned restorative justice advocate www.lorennwalker.com
Lorenn and Chaplain Bonnie planned for me to visit 100 women in prison while I was in Hawaii! The highlight of my trip was speaking with the women before and after showing the film which they loved. Mahalo to all that participated for encouraging me to fill a “missing link” in the system.
When I first met Lorenn almost a year ago she told me about Hanai, the native Hawaiian concept of an extended family, a second family if you will. When I was in Hawaii I did some more research and found out that one of the greatest things about Hanai is that in accepting a second mother or father you are not denying your biologicals. This is important whether or not you are adopted. There is no need to dis-adopt, or deny the biological family, ever. Hanai families add to our development, and they often become the “feeding family” — they can feed us physically, morally, and spiritually. They instill values and provide in ways that our bio families may not have been able to.
Hanai families allow us to accept love without denying anyone in our lives. It’s a beautiful and peaceful concept. I honor what all of my mothers, my fathers, my brothers and sisters have done for me, while accepting their positive guidance and “family” gifts.
Thank you Lorenn! For your hospitality, for inviting me to run in Xterra, and for introducing me to Bikram Yoga! I have now tried Bikram in three states! I think I’m hooked! 
Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and Love to everyone, especially my girls on the run, or just getting off the streets. Stay strong, stay focused and remember that with small steps you will create lasting change in your life.
Peace and many special holiday blessings!
Love,
Carissa