Ghosts Next Door
by Lopaka Kapanui
Dec 27, 2018
"Kekua"
I usually don’t hear my cell phone go off at three ‘o clock in the morning and if I do, the sound seems to come from a deep dark tunnel in the murky distance of night. Or least that’s how it sounds to me.
Dec 20, 2018
Believe in Shane
My life had fallen apart to the point that my own daughter wanted nothing to do with me, her new stepfather was well off, and I guess money talks and love can't afford twenty-one or all things Roxy forever.
Nov 12, 2018
Uncle Thomas
1
It was because of my uncle Thomas that my parents were able to buy the family station wagon at a reasonable price. He owned a local car dealership, and he gave my dad a good deal, it goes without saying that uncle Thomas didn't make a significant commission on the sale, but after all, he was my dad's younger brother.
Nov 7, 2018
Mr. Durin
Mr. Durin's black beady eyes regarded me with obvious contempt from across his tightly manicured desk.
Nov 6, 2018
A Chance Without Knowing
In the convenience store, the soft drinks, the juice, and water were stored right next to the beer, hard liquor and wine. When the tall dark man entered the store, the husband, wife, and sister in law yelled at the college students and the older drunk men that the liquor cabinet was closed after eleven in the evening; which it was.
Nov 5, 2018
Keep Your Thoughts To Yourself
Standing in line to place my order at the fast food joint my mind is filled with all the negative things which are attributed to standing in line at a fast food joint.
Nov 4, 2018
After Ours
Financially times are so hard on the islands that even though you're a brilliant person with a B.A. in business, applying that degree to an actual job is like finding a meticulously carved toothpick in a jar full of toothpicks.
Nov 3, 2018
The Stranger: Flux
"I went down to the crossroads,
fell down on my knees..."
A 1972 Sattelite Sebring seems like an unusual car to have but my strange like for it is because Plymouth and Dodge were coming out of their car coke bottle shaped 68 and 69 models craze with their Chargers, Roadrunners, and Superbees.
fell down on my knees..."
A 1972 Sattelite Sebring seems like an unusual car to have but my strange like for it is because Plymouth and Dodge were coming out of their car coke bottle shaped 68 and 69 models craze with their Chargers, Roadrunners, and Superbees.
Nov 2, 2018
The Stranger: One More Time
"I woke last night to the sound of thunder,
how far off I sat and wondered..."
Boy Napualawa's office was unlike any business office you've ever seen. The exterior didn't look like anything spectacular. In fact, if someone was lost and asking for directions to a specific location, this building would have been the one which you'd describe as being next to the place that the lost tourist was in search of.
how far off I sat and wondered..."
Boy Napualawa's office was unlike any business office you've ever seen. The exterior didn't look like anything spectacular. In fact, if someone was lost and asking for directions to a specific location, this building would have been the one which you'd describe as being next to the place that the lost tourist was in search of.
Nov 1, 2018
The Stranger: After One More
We have an understanding. As long as she's at the bar and I come knocking, she'll open up. Once I'm in she'll put up the closed sign and shut off the neon lights.
Oct 31, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 - One more
THE STRANGER
You know me, we've talked before. Well, I talked, you listened. You know what it is that I do. I don't have a boss that I report to. I work for myself and my services are such that I can set the terms of my contract in whichever way I choose.
You know me, we've talked before. Well, I talked, you listened. You know what it is that I do. I don't have a boss that I report to. I work for myself and my services are such that I can set the terms of my contract in whichever way I choose.
Oct 30, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #1
FORGET TO REMEMBER
Some things you're never taught or prepared to learn because a moment happens where it's suddenly thrust upon you and you have no choice.
Some things you're never taught or prepared to learn because a moment happens where it's suddenly thrust upon you and you have no choice.
Oct 29, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #2
HO'OKO
All these years later the name of the location escapes me, but as a child, I heard a story regarding a missionary who had come to the Wai'anae coast to relieve the native Hawaiians in that locale of their savage ways.
All these years later the name of the location escapes me, but as a child, I heard a story regarding a missionary who had come to the Wai'anae coast to relieve the native Hawaiians in that locale of their savage ways.
Oct 28, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #3
'A'AHU
Hula is a beautiful and exquisite art and for those who are meant for it, the rewards of what it has to offer are priceless. Hula is also a jealous art and much like other art communities, it is rife with gossip and high drama.
Hula is a beautiful and exquisite art and for those who are meant for it, the rewards of what it has to offer are priceless. Hula is also a jealous art and much like other art communities, it is rife with gossip and high drama.
Oct 27, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #4
GIRL
I met her coming out of a bar in Wahiawa near Kemo'o farms; well, really, I almost ran her over, but I stopped at the last second, and there we were literally faced to face.
I met her coming out of a bar in Wahiawa near Kemo'o farms; well, really, I almost ran her over, but I stopped at the last second, and there we were literally faced to face.
Oct 26, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #5
HERMANS
The accident was horrible, and I was dumbstruck as it unfolded in front of me. An errant driver in his Cadillac SUV with no care for his safety or anyone else's came at an alarming rate of speed from behind me.
The accident was horrible, and I was dumbstruck as it unfolded in front of me. An errant driver in his Cadillac SUV with no care for his safety or anyone else's came at an alarming rate of speed from behind me.
Oct 25, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #6
DON'T BOTHER
The elder Filipino lady crossed the street from Sacred Hearts to the McDonald's with a great degree of strange difficulty. She would arrive halfway towards her destination and freeze on the spot until the traffic light turned green and frustrated drivers would beep their horns at her.
The elder Filipino lady crossed the street from Sacred Hearts to the McDonald's with a great degree of strange difficulty. She would arrive halfway towards her destination and freeze on the spot until the traffic light turned green and frustrated drivers would beep their horns at her.
Oct 24, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #7
NEGOTIATION
When things got dark and I had no job and neither my family or friends found me bearable, I decided it was only natural to kill myself. The Kaimuki Jade building seemed to be the best place to end my life.
When things got dark and I had no job and neither my family or friends found me bearable, I decided it was only natural to kill myself. The Kaimuki Jade building seemed to be the best place to end my life.
Oct 23, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #8
CONTRITION 2
Lunch was uncomfortable because the air conditioning in the Vietnamese restaurant we ducked into was broken. We opted for take-out back at Keith’s office which was an old Matson container that he converted to his personal space. Pretty smart.
Lunch was uncomfortable because the air conditioning in the Vietnamese restaurant we ducked into was broken. We opted for take-out back at Keith’s office which was an old Matson container that he converted to his personal space. Pretty smart.
Oct 22, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #9
CONTRITION 1
The death of the Canon sisters was big news. They were from a well to do Kama'aina family and were groomed all their lives to take over the family estate and their holdings.
The death of the Canon sisters was big news. They were from a well to do Kama'aina family and were groomed all their lives to take over the family estate and their holdings.
Oct 21, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #10
CLUNEY
My brother's name was Clarence, but because of a speech impediment I had when I was younger I could only call him 'Cluney.' I guess the name stuck and my brother didn't mind. We were as close as brothers could be and our favorite thing was Harry Houdini.
Oct 20, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #11
NEED A PASS
It's a big thing to go somewhere and do something with your father or one of your older brothers no matter what the reason is. The best part about going to the event is the drive to and from, that's where you get to talk and have cool conversations.
It's a big thing to go somewhere and do something with your father or one of your older brothers no matter what the reason is. The best part about going to the event is the drive to and from, that's where you get to talk and have cool conversations.
Oct 19, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #12
FRANCESCA
The sweet mystery of first love while you're on the precipice of your teenage years and adulthood leaves a lasting impression on your memory no matter how long the passage of time may be.
The sweet mystery of first love while you're on the precipice of your teenage years and adulthood leaves a lasting impression on your memory no matter how long the passage of time may be.
Oct 18, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #13
GIVE NO QUARTER
I was a little boy sitting in an ice cream shop in Kahului. The time was close to noon and the place was mostly empty with the exception of me and my hanai parents.
I was a little boy sitting in an ice cream shop in Kahului. The time was close to noon and the place was mostly empty with the exception of me and my hanai parents.
Oct 17, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #14
VISION
He saw his own death and he didn't do anything to try and change his destiny. Rather, he determined to help those people in his vision who he saw die around him. Perhaps he'd be able to save them. In the vision, he was on a flight. There was an offshore storm that happened to make landfall just as the plane was about to touch down. The downdraft slammed the plane into the ground and snapped it in two. In the vision, he and several other people were ejected from the plane while still strapped into their seats. They were thrown several hundred feet away from the plane and died on impact when they hit the ground. He'd had this dream several times before but it's visitation increased during the week of his flight out.
The afternoon had come when he stood at the airport gate awaiting his flight. He'd been presented with many opportunities along the way to delay the flight, he could have unholstered a gun from one of the airport's security or he could have rested the steel french fry basket from one of the burger king kiosks. He realized it wouldn't work, he'd either be killed or taken away to jail. So, he bided his time.
The flight arrived and everyone boarded without incident; when the flight reached it's elevation and leveled out, he unbuckled himself and went for the emergency exit. It was his one and only hope. Pretend to open the emergency exit, they'll have to turn the plane around and go back. However, there were much too many good samaritans on the plane. After he fought off the flight attendants. the passengers came after him and beat him to a pulp. When he awoke, it was to the voice of the captain who said that the flight would be landing shortly. He directed all attendants to take their seats. He mentioned a bit of a storm they were flying through but that everything should be fine. Everything was until the plane was struck by a tremendous downdraft that slammed the craft to the ground with such brutal force that it snapped in two. The front half went in one direction and the back half went off in another. He and the people around him were catapulted from where their seats were fastened with such savage speed that they had no time to think. A hundred yards later, some were slammed to the pavement on the runway. Others landed with such force that they were thrown off of their chairs while still strapped in. Body parts and torsos would be found several more hundred feet from the impact. As for him, he was found on a thick grassy area uninjured. He really didn't appear to be dead so much as he seemed to be asleep, almost as if he were dreaming.
He saw his own death and he didn't do anything to try and change his destiny. Rather, he determined to help those people in his vision who he saw die around him. Perhaps he'd be able to save them. In the vision, he was on a flight. There was an offshore storm that happened to make landfall just as the plane was about to touch down. The downdraft slammed the plane into the ground and snapped it in two. In the vision, he and several other people were ejected from the plane while still strapped into their seats. They were thrown several hundred feet away from the plane and died on impact when they hit the ground. He'd had this dream several times before but it's visitation increased during the week of his flight out.
The afternoon had come when he stood at the airport gate awaiting his flight. He'd been presented with many opportunities along the way to delay the flight, he could have unholstered a gun from one of the airport's security or he could have rested the steel french fry basket from one of the burger king kiosks. He realized it wouldn't work, he'd either be killed or taken away to jail. So, he bided his time.
The flight arrived and everyone boarded without incident; when the flight reached it's elevation and leveled out, he unbuckled himself and went for the emergency exit. It was his one and only hope. Pretend to open the emergency exit, they'll have to turn the plane around and go back. However, there were much too many good samaritans on the plane. After he fought off the flight attendants. the passengers came after him and beat him to a pulp. When he awoke, it was to the voice of the captain who said that the flight would be landing shortly. He directed all attendants to take their seats. He mentioned a bit of a storm they were flying through but that everything should be fine. Everything was until the plane was struck by a tremendous downdraft that slammed the craft to the ground with such brutal force that it snapped in two. The front half went in one direction and the back half went off in another. He and the people around him were catapulted from where their seats were fastened with such savage speed that they had no time to think. A hundred yards later, some were slammed to the pavement on the runway. Others landed with such force that they were thrown off of their chairs while still strapped in. Body parts and torsos would be found several more hundred feet from the impact. As for him, he was found on a thick grassy area uninjured. He really didn't appear to be dead so much as he seemed to be asleep, almost as if he were dreaming.
Oct 16, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #15
PU'E ONE
DRESSING ROOM
She held the inkwell close to her eyes so that her tears would fall directly into it. Her heart was broken sufficiently enough that the salty water came without effort and formed its own minute pool, which floated just above the thick black substance.
Oct 15, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #16
I, ME, MINE
Sitting in front of the mirror I undo my hair and let it fall at my shoulders. I shake my head a bit to let the full body of it spread out more. Both my hands rub the sides of my face and then my temples.
Sitting in front of the mirror I undo my hair and let it fall at my shoulders. I shake my head a bit to let the full body of it spread out more. Both my hands rub the sides of my face and then my temples.
Oct 14, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #17
TANOMOSHI: TIME TO COLLECT
Dying was not as bad as Yuta had heard. Sure being shot through the abdomen was incredibly painful but in the end, dying brings on a gradual kind of fatigue that just makes you want to fall asleep.
Dying was not as bad as Yuta had heard. Sure being shot through the abdomen was incredibly painful but in the end, dying brings on a gradual kind of fatigue that just makes you want to fall asleep.
Oct 13, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #18
TANOMOSHI: DIVIDENDS
With his newly acquired position as the supervisor of his division, Yuta now had the financial means to buy a new house for his family. It was a two-story home built in 1921 and it sat just above the last block of the Kaimuki tract.
With his newly acquired position as the supervisor of his division, Yuta now had the financial means to buy a new house for his family. It was a two-story home built in 1921 and it sat just above the last block of the Kaimuki tract.
Oct 12, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #19
TANOMOSHI: YUTA'S CREDIT
FIVE YEARS LATER
Yuta took the thousand dollars given to him by the old Hawaiian man and invested it into moving off the plantation and moving into a very small one bedroom house on the Makiki tract. While there he was able to procure a decent job working as a clerk for the local phone company.
FIVE YEARS LATER
Yuta took the thousand dollars given to him by the old Hawaiian man and invested it into moving off the plantation and moving into a very small one bedroom house on the Makiki tract. While there he was able to procure a decent job working as a clerk for the local phone company.
Oct 11, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #20
TANOMOSHI
Yuta tired of the drudgery of plantation life. Although a hard worker, he did not possess the thrift that was needed to improve his personal circumstances.
Yuta tired of the drudgery of plantation life. Although a hard worker, he did not possess the thrift that was needed to improve his personal circumstances.
Oct 10, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #21
GO FUND HER GO KILL HER
Her body was found in an open field just shy of a mile from the Kunia golf course. The white silk robe she wore with embossed designs of crows and strange symbols lay spread open beneath her.
Her body was found in an open field just shy of a mile from the Kunia golf course. The white silk robe she wore with embossed designs of crows and strange symbols lay spread open beneath her.
Oct 9, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #22
DOUBT FILLS THE GLASS
I remember the day I lost my faith. It wasn't an accumulation of several events or of one traumatic incident. It came during a lackluster mundane moment of clarity.
I remember the day I lost my faith. It wasn't an accumulation of several events or of one traumatic incident. It came during a lackluster mundane moment of clarity.
Oct 8, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #23
ULI
They walked six abreast holding him over their heads as they traveled along. They were in a hurry and to their detriment they bound his hands in front of him and not behind. He was a kupua, a shapeshifter.
They walked six abreast holding him over their heads as they traveled along. They were in a hurry and to their detriment they bound his hands in front of him and not behind. He was a kupua, a shapeshifter.
Oct 7, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #24
KNOWING
I recall my childhood days when we lived in Kalihi Valley. To be more specific we lived on Machado Street which as I understand has always been haunted.
I recall my childhood days when we lived in Kalihi Valley. To be more specific we lived on Machado Street which as I understand has always been haunted.
Oct 6, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #25
PIKAKE
Waikiki is a moving cluster of people jostling for position and direction in a once-exalted location now mired down with high-end boutiques and five-star hotels. Nothing of its sacred history is visible anywhere unless you accidentally wander into the lobby of a few hotels whose selling point has to do with the history of Waikiki.
Waikiki is a moving cluster of people jostling for position and direction in a once-exalted location now mired down with high-end boutiques and five-star hotels. Nothing of its sacred history is visible anywhere unless you accidentally wander into the lobby of a few hotels whose selling point has to do with the history of Waikiki.
Oct 5, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #26
GOSSAMER
The afternoon sun left a shimmering spectrum of light on her wedding gown that it made her appear otherworldly. It was not a material he immediately recognized but never the less, his soon to be bride wore it beautifully.
The afternoon sun left a shimmering spectrum of light on her wedding gown that it made her appear otherworldly. It was not a material he immediately recognized but never the less, his soon to be bride wore it beautifully.
Oct 4, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #27
HO'OLAUNA
"You know this is all your fault right?" You know that?" Justina was beautiful but she had this thing where she could change the rise of her eyebrow or the intensity in her eyes to let you know she was mad.
"You know this is all your fault right?" You know that?" Justina was beautiful but she had this thing where she could change the rise of her eyebrow or the intensity in her eyes to let you know she was mad.
Oct 3, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #28
WARMTH OF FLESH
Her hand is warm, the blood pulses evenly, and there is a rosy glow to her flesh which tells me that there is still hope in her. There are schedules she'd meant to keep and goals which she determined to accomplish.
Her hand is warm, the blood pulses evenly, and there is a rosy glow to her flesh which tells me that there is still hope in her. There are schedules she'd meant to keep and goals which she determined to accomplish.
Oct 2, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #29
POLENA I KA UA
JANUARY 29, 1891.
A wind stirs from nothing at the point of Mokapu and filters along the ahupua'a past pu'u o kaha'i. The warm air from the marsh rises up to meet the phantom wind and carries it mauka until it takes a slight pause between Konahuanui and Lanihuli as if contemplating its next direction.
JANUARY 29, 1891.
A wind stirs from nothing at the point of Mokapu and filters along the ahupua'a past pu'u o kaha'i. The warm air from the marsh rises up to meet the phantom wind and carries it mauka until it takes a slight pause between Konahuanui and Lanihuli as if contemplating its next direction.
Oct 1, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #30
MELE
Save for the beautifully hand sewn quilt, the room on the second floor stood empty. It was where the queen had been imprisoned for the better part of eight months.
Save for the beautifully hand sewn quilt, the room on the second floor stood empty. It was where the queen had been imprisoned for the better part of eight months.
Sep 30, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #31
BIND
Damp strips from the bark of the Mai'a or banana plant was used to wili or bind the delicate ferns and flowers into place.
Damp strips from the bark of the Mai'a or banana plant was used to wili or bind the delicate ferns and flowers into place.
Sep 29, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #32
CLOSE TO THE SKIN
I hate these occasions because they bring out the worst in people.
I hate these occasions because they bring out the worst in people.
Sep 28, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #33
HEY, LITTLE SISTER WHO'S THE ONLY ONE?
Alan and Piker opened their eyes and found themselves on the floor of Alan’s workroom.
Alan and Piker opened their eyes and found themselves on the floor of Alan’s workroom.
Sep 27, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #34
WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?
"No, wait, we're wrong," Piker was obviously frustrated at himself.
"No, wait, we're wrong," Piker was obviously frustrated at himself.
Sep 26, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #35
HEY, LITTLE SISTER
In a sea of sailor moon uniforms, one could pick her out of the hundreds of schoolgirls who crowded the food court at Ala Moana shopping center.
In a sea of sailor moon uniforms, one could pick her out of the hundreds of schoolgirls who crowded the food court at Ala Moana shopping center.
Sep 25, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #36
THE LAST BREATH
The grass was so well manicured that most of the participants who sat in a large circle naturally assumed that it was astro-turf.
The grass was so well manicured that most of the participants who sat in a large circle naturally assumed that it was astro-turf.
Sep 24, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #37
THE MAN
I remember the man who rented out a room from us. He did not flinch when my mother informed him of the monthly dues in rent.
I remember the man who rented out a room from us. He did not flinch when my mother informed him of the monthly dues in rent.
Sep 23, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #38
COMFORTABLY NUMB
Pettiness is something I have no stomach for. With that said and firmly understood, a letter written in pink glittered ink filled a page with a kind of dribble that only teenagers use with which to communicate their underdeveloped feelings.
Pettiness is something I have no stomach for. With that said and firmly understood, a letter written in pink glittered ink filled a page with a kind of dribble that only teenagers use with which to communicate their underdeveloped feelings.
Sep 22, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #39
HULI HULI
It took Clark's death to realize that she and her husband and everyone else were the ones at fault.
Sep 21, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #40
WHO ELSE TO SEE?
Someone was in my room. You know that because you wake up from a dead sleep, well at least I woke up from a dead sleep. It was the shuffling feet that did it.
Someone was in my room. You know that because you wake up from a dead sleep, well at least I woke up from a dead sleep. It was the shuffling feet that did it.
Sep 20, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #41
LONG DAY 'TIL NIGHT
We both dared ourselves then we dared each other. That's what brothers do after all, especially when neither one wants to employ any common sense and chicken out.
We both dared ourselves then we dared each other. That's what brothers do after all, especially when neither one wants to employ any common sense and chicken out.
Sep 19, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #42
PE'E
Laying low and out of sight was not a choice Kory Hanlan had. It was either that or be found out and be arrested or be found out by the locals which may have been even worse.
Laying low and out of sight was not a choice Kory Hanlan had. It was either that or be found out and be arrested or be found out by the locals which may have been even worse.
Sep 18, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #43
TABBY WINS
It was the unnerving silence that felt like an unwelcome stranger in her hotel room that woke her. Whether blatant or residual, she'd become accustomed to the constant presence of noise in one form or another on 'O'ahu.
It was the unnerving silence that felt like an unwelcome stranger in her hotel room that woke her. Whether blatant or residual, she'd become accustomed to the constant presence of noise in one form or another on 'O'ahu.
Sep 17, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #44
TABBY NEEDS A WIN
Spring was an ironic time for a break from school, considering that Spring was a season when life grows anew after the passing of what would be called fall and winter in the mainland.
Spring was an ironic time for a break from school, considering that Spring was a season when life grows anew after the passing of what would be called fall and winter in the mainland.
Sep 16, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #45
HOW TO LOVE HIM FINI
TABBY
" I asked him why he never hit on me or tried anything," Tabby looked out of the office window while her father sat there and did his best to listen.
TABBY
" I asked him why he never hit on me or tried anything," Tabby looked out of the office window while her father sat there and did his best to listen.
Sep 15, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #46
HOW TO LOVE HIM II
The windshield on the 1966 Chrysler Imperial crown was like a mirror reflecting the branches of the gold shower trees above it.
The windshield on the 1966 Chrysler Imperial crown was like a mirror reflecting the branches of the gold shower trees above it.
Sep 14, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #47
HOW TO LOVE HIM PART I
The morning gifted Boy with a soothing breeze which carried a few dry leafs from a nearby tree which hovered over the florist's shop.
The morning gifted Boy with a soothing breeze which carried a few dry leafs from a nearby tree which hovered over the florist's shop.
Sep 13, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #48
WASH
Our (inclusive) culture has long since we have known, had names for an endless amount of differing rains. That’s what also makes our culture unique; we hardly have one Hawaiian word that is a blanket definition for all words.
Our (inclusive) culture has long since we have known, had names for an endless amount of differing rains. That’s what also makes our culture unique; we hardly have one Hawaiian word that is a blanket definition for all words.
Sep 12, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #49
WILLY MACK
His full name was William Howard Macky but he used to go by Willy Mack. Now, I’ve already mentioned the words “was” and “used” so if you’ve caught on to that then you’ve figured out how things are going to fare for Mr. Macky.
His full name was William Howard Macky but he used to go by Willy Mack. Now, I’ve already mentioned the words “was” and “used” so if you’ve caught on to that then you’ve figured out how things are going to fare for Mr. Macky.
Sep 11, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #50
WILD NIGHT
I took a left turn on Alakea when I noticed the late model Cadillac parked in front of the Mandalay restaurant with its four ways on.
I took a left turn on Alakea when I noticed the late model Cadillac parked in front of the Mandalay restaurant with its four ways on.
Sep 10, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #51
BEAUTIFUL ZION
I was very much involved in getting into my car and heading back to my hotel room in Manchester. Not England, but New Hampshire.
I was very much involved in getting into my car and heading back to my hotel room in Manchester. Not England, but New Hampshire.
Sep 9, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #52
HEALING FROM IGNORANCE
"Will I heal?" The old woman asked.
"You will
"Will I heal?" The old woman asked.
"You will
Sep 8, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #53
#106
My life is like swimming in the shallow end of a pool, where I was too afraid to venture anywhere profound because I’d gotten used to the life that I was told I was supposed to have.
My life is like swimming in the shallow end of a pool, where I was too afraid to venture anywhere profound because I’d gotten used to the life that I was told I was supposed to have.
Sep 7, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #54
OUR HOUSE
Irwin Ramento leaves this house every day, it’s what is required of him as part of this care home. The residents are to be out of the house for most of the day except for lunch and dinner.
Irwin Ramento leaves this house every day, it’s what is required of him as part of this care home. The residents are to be out of the house for most of the day except for lunch and dinner.
Sep 6, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #55
MANGO LURE
I wondered who he was and what the circumstances were that brought to this present moment? He was older than me, or maybe it was homeless that aged him?
Sep 5, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #56
HOPENA
"Are you the one who attached poems to pictures that people sent you of Facebook?" The person in the message asked.
"Are you the one who attached poems to pictures that people sent you of Facebook?" The person in the message asked.
Sep 4, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #57
KEPT IN THE DARK
Five persons on the ghost tour tonight, three local people. Local Japanese guy and his middle-eastern looking girlfriend or wife. Their friend is a hapa-haole guy whose features are intrinsically Japanese, but he's got freckles on his cheeks and a full head of red curly hair. The other couple is European, but I can't really place the origin of the accent.
Five persons on the ghost tour tonight, three local people. Local Japanese guy and his middle-eastern looking girlfriend or wife. Their friend is a hapa-haole guy whose features are intrinsically Japanese, but he's got freckles on his cheeks and a full head of red curly hair. The other couple is European, but I can't really place the origin of the accent.
Sep 3, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #58
UNDERSTAND
I don't understand the attraction to rap music, and it's sampled beats, and it's constant need to emphasize its point with the 'F' word in every other sentence.
I don't understand the attraction to rap music, and it's sampled beats, and it's constant need to emphasize its point with the 'F' word in every other sentence.
Sep 2, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #59
INAZUMA II
The ride from the central station was a long drive, and Corey was blindfolded the second he got into the back seat of a 1966 Chrysler Imperial Crown.
The ride from the central station was a long drive, and Corey was blindfolded the second he got into the back seat of a 1966 Chrysler Imperial Crown.
Sep 1, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #60
INAZUMA
It was Netflix night at the Higashi home. Alan and Yulianna sat on the couch while Alan's childhood friend Piker Teruya sat on the large rattan chair.
It was Netflix night at the Higashi home. Alan and Yulianna sat on the couch while Alan's childhood friend Piker Teruya sat on the large rattan chair.
Aug 31, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #61
TAPESTRY II
My mother handed me her phone and headed straight out the front door, “how did this guy even get my phone number?”
My mother handed me her phone and headed straight out the front door, “how did this guy even get my phone number?”
Aug 30, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #62
ICK
Have you ever wondered about the distance between yourself and someone you’re related to? What I mean is that you could be sitting across the table from your own brother but
Have you ever wondered about the distance between yourself and someone you’re related to? What I mean is that you could be sitting across the table from your own brother but
Aug 29, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #63
KAHUNA FOR LUNCH
I remember as a child that it was not an unusual thing to leave your doors open at night and more often than not passersby were always invited in by my parents to be given a warm meal and water to drink.
I remember as a child that it was not an unusual thing to leave your doors open at night and more often than not passersby were always invited in by my parents to be given a warm meal and water to drink.
Aug 28, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #64
TAPESTRY
My mother by the looks of her appears to be a very bright and intelligent woman in her forties but is, in fact, eighty-six years of age. After dad died mom didn't want to stay in the house anymore
My mother by the looks of her appears to be a very bright and intelligent woman in her forties but is, in fact, eighty-six years of age. After dad died mom didn't want to stay in the house anymore
Aug 27, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #65
WAHI
I was just back from the mainland for vacation and my brother Wahi and I got turned around while hiking the Aiea loop trail, it was unusual for us since we hiked that trail all the time as kids.
I was just back from the mainland for vacation and my brother Wahi and I got turned around while hiking the Aiea loop trail, it was unusual for us since we hiked that trail all the time as kids.
Aug 26, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #66
AUGUST 4 1981 TUESDAY
I turned 19 today, and I am not sure what to think or feel. I mean I'm 19, and my whole life has been about school, now school is out, so what do I do? Do I go to college and do more school or do I party all night?
Aug 25, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #67
KANI: THE MURDER OF TAMA CHUN 5
Principal Tamashiro appeared on the far side of the field where Mr. Kiyabu and Ms. Nakashima were holding their only coed class on the tug of war.
Principal Tamashiro appeared on the far side of the field where Mr. Kiyabu and Ms. Nakashima were holding their only coed class on the tug of war.
Aug 24, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #68
KANI: THE MURDER OF TAMA CHUN 4
Milton Tamashiro was a reluctant principal of Waipahu Intermediate school, the DOE begged for him to come out of retirement and take the job.
Milton Tamashiro was a reluctant principal of Waipahu Intermediate school, the DOE begged for him to come out of retirement and take the job.
Aug 23, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #69
KANI: THE MURDER OF TAMA CHUN 3
A year ago George Luke began to receive correspondence from his uncle who lived in the Zhongnan residential district in Foshan, China.
A year ago George Luke began to receive correspondence from his uncle who lived in the Zhongnan residential district in Foshan, China.
Aug 22, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #70
KANI: THE MURDER OF TAMA CHUN 2
10 am 2nd period English
"My last name is Chun just like Tama and several times I told his parents that we probably related but they don't want to listen to me," Ms. Pat Chun was the English teacher at the school who was long past retirement.
10 am 2nd period English
"My last name is Chun just like Tama and several times I told his parents that we probably related but they don't want to listen to me," Ms. Pat Chun was the English teacher at the school who was long past retirement.
Aug 21, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #71
KANI: THE MURDER OF TAMA CHUN
Before. 2:00 pm. School bell rings.
George Luke is a science teacher at Waipahu intermediate who was enthusiastic about changing young minds once he graduated college with his teaching certificate and his degree in science.
Before. 2:00 pm. School bell rings.
George Luke is a science teacher at Waipahu intermediate who was enthusiastic about changing young minds once he graduated college with his teaching certificate and his degree in science.
Aug 20, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #72
KANI
Tama was a normal boy of thirteen years old who loved the things that boys his age loved to do. For Tama, his primary enjoyment came from playing the 'ukulele.
Tama was a normal boy of thirteen years old who loved the things that boys his age loved to do. For Tama, his primary enjoyment came from playing the 'ukulele.
Aug 19, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #73
WOMAN AT THE DOOR
Saturday, August 1, 1981
Our little cul de sac of a neighborhood was a fire with the sounds of something new and astounding that premiered on national television. Little did we know
Aug 18, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #74
HYOKO
She called me from a pay phone a block away from her apartment. She told her roommate that she needed to go to the 7-11 for feminine napkins. "He didn't say a word, he just nodded his head," there was a nervous fear under her voice.
She called me from a pay phone a block away from her apartment. She told her roommate that she needed to go to the 7-11 for feminine napkins. "He didn't say a word, he just nodded his head," there was a nervous fear under her voice.
Aug 17, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #75
THINK OF LAURA
Laura didn't love herself because of her weight, but we loved her because she was funny and insightful.
Laura didn't love herself because of her weight, but we loved her because she was funny and insightful.
Aug 16, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #76
THROUGH AND THROUGH III CONCLUSION
Chelsea was still a bit dazed from the horrible nightmare she had the night before. She slept intermittently throughout the night and finally gave up sleeping altogether.
Chelsea was still a bit dazed from the horrible nightmare she had the night before. She slept intermittently throughout the night and finally gave up sleeping altogether.
Aug 15, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #77
THROUGH AND THROUGH PART II
Clement Mattina's murder was an outright message to anyone that had business with the Giordano family. There were no second chances once you slipped up
Clement Mattina's murder was an outright message to anyone that had business with the Giordano family. There were no second chances once you slipped up
Aug 14, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #78
THROUGH AND THROUGH PART 1
March 2017
Clement Mattina was a delivery boy for a national pizza chain for years and after seeing first hand how his former manager ran the store, he figured one day that he could open his own business and do pizza better, and he did.
March 2017
Clement Mattina was a delivery boy for a national pizza chain for years and after seeing first hand how his former manager ran the store, he figured one day that he could open his own business and do pizza better, and he did.
Aug 13, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #79
A TRUE STORY
1979
They were dressed in black dance leotards forming circles and numbers with their bodies. Every time I thought I had a proper count of them there would be more.
1979
They were dressed in black dance leotards forming circles and numbers with their bodies. Every time I thought I had a proper count of them there would be more.
Aug 12, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #80
THIS LIFE
(A conversation this morning with someone who wanted the gift of sight and all things spiritual)
ME: Most mornings if not all of them are filled with one normal occurrence and that is the sensation of someone playing with what's left of my hair.
(A conversation this morning with someone who wanted the gift of sight and all things spiritual)
ME: Most mornings if not all of them are filled with one normal occurrence and that is the sensation of someone playing with what's left of my hair.
Aug 11, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #81
WAIWAI
She floats across the smooth tiled floor, a large bare space for her effortless steps to carry her back and forth and side to side.
She floats across the smooth tiled floor, a large bare space for her effortless steps to carry her back and forth and side to side.
Aug 10, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #82
WAITING FOR KALANI
"...Come away with me and I will write you a song..."
"...Come away with me and I will write you a song..."
Aug 9, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #83
NO, LISTEN
We found our mini-bully in the middle of our front yard laying flat on her tummy with all four legs splayed out.
We found our mini-bully in the middle of our front yard laying flat on her tummy with all four legs splayed out.
Aug 8, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #84
REMEMBER BETH
"I remember when you were a baby, and I always brought you to Sandy beach in the late afternoons so you could collect all kinds of different rocks and shells.
"I remember when you were a baby, and I always brought you to Sandy beach in the late afternoons so you could collect all kinds of different rocks and shells.
Aug 7, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #85
ITHEACHAIN
It was one of those days when you have a schedule of things you need to follow but no matter what you do to keep to that schedule, you are interrupted at every turn.
It was one of those days when you have a schedule of things you need to follow but no matter what you do to keep to that schedule, you are interrupted at every turn.
Aug 6, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #86
KEVIN AT THE CLUB
My ears were still ringing and I was pretty sure that I smelled like twenty different kinds of cigarette smoke brands and one kind of Tennessee whiskey after spending a few hours in that dive off of Fort street mall.
My ears were still ringing and I was pretty sure that I smelled like twenty different kinds of cigarette smoke brands and one kind of Tennessee whiskey after spending a few hours in that dive off of Fort street mall.
Aug 5, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #87
MAYBE THIS TIME
“You don’t even have to love me,” she pleaded. “I can just be here for you whenever you need someone to be with you or to just hang out?
“You don’t even have to love me,” she pleaded. “I can just be here for you whenever you need someone to be with you or to just hang out?
Aug 4, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #88
RUBBER SOLE
Every morning this tall husky looking woman with a horrid sense of fashion and an even more horrid taste in jewelry paces back and forth in front of our store with a wild look in her eyes.
Every morning this tall husky looking woman with a horrid sense of fashion and an even more horrid taste in jewelry paces back and forth in front of our store with a wild look in her eyes.
Aug 3, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #89
THE VILLAGE NEEDS THE MONSTER
I should have gone elsewhere to clear my mind and get my thoughts together when I think about it now. Like my own neighborhood in town, that would have been easier.
I should have gone elsewhere to clear my mind and get my thoughts together when I think about it now. Like my own neighborhood in town, that would have been easier.
Aug 2, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #90
GOODBYE GIRL
"Why do I have to die?" Shana asked her mother. It was a hard question, but Lorelle didn't want her daughter's last memory of life to be a horrible one.
"Why do I have to die?" Shana asked her mother. It was a hard question, but Lorelle didn't want her daughter's last memory of life to be a horrible one.
Aug 1, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #91
SCRATCH AND THE COUPE DE VILLE
The 1970 Cadillac Coupe de Ville was the facelift car that gave Caddilac the best sales that the company would ever see from a single model.
Jul 31, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #92
HO'OPA'I
Day 1
I was going to kill him with a Barrett M107 .50 caliber; why not?
Day 1
I was going to kill him with a Barrett M107 .50 caliber; why not?
Jul 30, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #93
“...When you kiss me heaven sighs,
and though I close my eyes,
I see La Vien Rose…”
and though I close my eyes,
I see La Vien Rose…”
Jul 29, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018! #94
HE AIN'T DEAD HE'S MY BROTHER
My bonehead brother Derrick called me from Kapiolani Park to pick him up. He said he’d be hanging out at the bandstand.
My bonehead brother Derrick called me from Kapiolani Park to pick him up. He said he’d be hanging out at the bandstand.
Jul 28, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #95
TAKE ON ME
My house is all kinds of haunted, you name it, it’s happening.
My house is all kinds of haunted, you name it, it’s happening.
Jul 27, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #96
REMAINS OF ME
Never have the eyes of men been witness to more beautiful a site than that of the sunset beyond the leeward mountains which border the plains of Kaupe’a.
Never have the eyes of men been witness to more beautiful a site than that of the sunset beyond the leeward mountains which border the plains of Kaupe’a.
Jul 26, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #97
SITTING, HEALING
Every afternoon I sit on the beach just near the first lifeguard stand at Ala Moana Park. I sit and stare out into the water, always hoping that one day, my son will magically come running up the sand completely exhausted and ask me if we could go get shave ice from the Waiola store.
Every afternoon I sit on the beach just near the first lifeguard stand at Ala Moana Park. I sit and stare out into the water, always hoping that one day, my son will magically come running up the sand completely exhausted and ask me if we could go get shave ice from the Waiola store.
Jul 25, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018 #98
MANAMANA
I was a bit early to my appointment at Queen's hospital for my yearly checkup.
I was a bit early to my appointment at Queen's hospital for my yearly checkup.
Jul 24, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down to Halloween 2018! #99
SWEET LORETTA
John Cummings was murdered most brutally, and his body was expected to sink into the dark mire beneath the waters of River Street.
John Cummings was murdered most brutally, and his body was expected to sink into the dark mire beneath the waters of River Street.
Jul 23, 2018
100 Ghost Stories Counting Down To Halloween 2018! #100
REMEMBER TO FORGET
My parents are Alfred and Carmen Launui, and they're very well known and respected in the paranormal community in Hawai'i, and this is my short story about them.
My parents are Alfred and Carmen Launui, and they're very well known and respected in the paranormal community in Hawai'i, and this is my short story about them.
May 31, 2018
Manny's Revenge
When I first came under the employ of the Hawaiian language immersion schools I worked at a location in Wai'anae and then transferred to a new school on the grounds of Koaloha church. Although the program itself was unique in that the curriculum was developed to be taught in the Hawaiian language it was really like any other school except that its lofty goals were particular toward its educational attributes and hope for the perpetuation of our culture.
May 29, 2018
In Plain Sight
Introductions were made all around and handshakes were exchanged but there were no pleasantries. The owner of the home who was a well-known recluse gestured toward the larger waiting room, everyone followed as he led the way.
May 13, 2018
The Far Swimming Son
Blue's happiness filled him with a knowledge of the wonderment and love that Honey would find once she returned home. The goodbyes and hugs and kisses and promises of not forgetting to write and to call every chance they had were expected at the Airport.
Apr 3, 2018
URBAN LEGENDS OF 'O'AHU
An interesting thing happens when factual accounts become Urban Legends. Such as the case of 'Janette Lum.' In 1951 at 15 years of age Janette and her friend, Anna Kalilikane were classmates at No Ka 'Oi school in Aiea. Every day after school Janette and Anna studied in the library at the intermediate school next to theirs.
Mar 30, 2018
Before The Son Met The Ocean
Blue and Honey spent most of the morning sharing intimacies and holding one another in such an embrace that it seemed neither would let go for some extent of time. Dave Loggins sang longingly from the old radio in the living room, "Please come to L.A. to live forever..."
Mar 18, 2018
The Son Giving Life
Leiana dragged Ola's lifeless broken body along the salt-encrusted red mud just outside the gates of the refinery which was across the street from the cafe'. It was a dried up canal when it wasn't filled with water coming in from Kawaihae bay.
Mar 13, 2018
The Life Giving Son
At 53 years old, Leiana worked a full-time job during the day at the Seafood Bar in Kawaihae and a part-time job on the weekends as a ticket agent at the airport in Kona. Her only real hobby was feather lei making, which she learned from a group of lei makers and lauhala weavers at Hulihe’e palace.
Mar 12, 2018
No Place to Ever Arrive ('elua)
Rachel’s home was a simple one and like herself, it was located off a beaten path that wasn’t easily found because of the propensity of Kiawe trees that kept it well hidden. But once you found it, once you stood within the confines of her domicile you realized that it was a home that was far away from the present day.
Mar 11, 2018
No Place to Ever Arrive
The woman pinched the delicately dyed goose feather between her forefinger and thumb and applied it to the backing and layered it on another feather of the same color. Winding the thread around the base of the feather, she secured it in place with a half hitch knot and repeated the process again and again with saint-like patience. She noticed the young man watching her from his table and could sense his interest.
Mar 3, 2018
Ke Ao vs Vortex
Vortex: A mass of whirling fluid or air, especially a whirlpool or whirlwind.
Portal: A doorway, a gate, or other entrance, especially a large and elaborate one.
Leyline: Any of various imaginary lines along which certain ancient, man-made structures are thought by some to have been aligned.
Electromagnetic Field: A field of force that consists of both electric and magnetic components, resulting from the motion of an electric charge and containing a definite amount of electromagnetic energy.
............
After much research, it was interesting to discover that not one of the words listed above has a partnered equivalent in the Hawaiian language.
Portal: A doorway, a gate, or other entrance, especially a large and elaborate one.
Leyline: Any of various imaginary lines along which certain ancient, man-made structures are thought by some to have been aligned.
Electromagnetic Field: A field of force that consists of both electric and magnetic components, resulting from the motion of an electric charge and containing a definite amount of electromagnetic energy.
............
After much research, it was interesting to discover that not one of the words listed above has a partnered equivalent in the Hawaiian language.
Feb 10, 2018
Hawaiian Storytelling
I wanted to broach the subject of "Hawaiian Storytelling" by sharing something that happened this past October on Hawai'i island. We've been lucky to go to the Kilauea Theater these past three years at the volcanoes national park during the Halloween season to share ghost stories. Recently someone left a comment on Facebook which said that I didn't tell any real Hawaiian stories.
Jan 3, 2018
Kai a Kahinali’i ( Deluge)
It was a three-day deluge that soaked most of west ‘O’ahu which consequently increased the number of phone calls exponentially. The larger concentration of the calls was centered in the Kapolei demographic and the issues were all the same, everyone felt that the increase of cold weather and rain precipitated paranormal activity in their homes, businesses, and schools.
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