Notes

I'm not Polynesian, nor do I claim anything even remotely close to fully understanding or identifying with that culture. I did, however, get the honor and privilege to grow up in a city rich with a strong Polynesian population. This privilege has allowed me to admire and appreciate this culture at a close proximity. The similarities I found with my upbringing and that of my Polynesian friends were things like big families, delicious food, wonderful colors, music, and traditions, and most importantly, a pride in knowing who you are and your ancestors were. A major difference I perceived though, was this strong Polynesian identity of warriors - it was contagious. To feel like anything is possible when you fight for what is right. When I saw this video I swelled up with pride - this could have been any of my Polynesian friends. Could have been any of the young, strong boys fighting on my football field week after week, who felt it was more than a game, because they knew who they were. Protectors.