Elisabet Sahtouris
January 10, 2025
Yesterday’s “Celebration of Life”
Michael and I arrived at the Wa’ahila Ridge State Recreation Area Gazebo three hours early to prepare for Dr. Elizabeth Sahtouris’ “Celebration of Life”. With blue skies, the gazebo was surrounded by lush greenery, and a gentle breeze brought a sense of calm and serenity.
For the farewell ceremony, held in accordance with Elizabeth’s wishes, only a few close friends were invited, many of them elders in various fields. They brought symbols of different cultures and objects of remembrance that carried deep feelings, connecting the traditions of each place with her spirit. A deep respect for her life’s accomplishments pervaded the ceremony.
Organizers Tadia Rice (right) and speaker Zhou Xiaofang (center)
The celebration began with each person sharing their stories of Elizabeth with reverence. She was not only a brilliant scientist and scholar, but also a dear friend who gave warmth and wisdom. Her contributions to world peace, ecological civilization and the future of humanity are forever etched in people’s hearts. Her thoughts nourish our faith in the future like a trickle of water, and her influence will continue to inspire the world to embrace the world with wisdom and love.
Music played slowly, accompanied by a recording of Elizabeth reading her verses. Her voice was full of life force and emotion, and those verses profoundly conveyed her love for nature, life and the future. Many people were moved to tears at this moment, as if she had never left but continued to walk with us in another way.
Papali’i Dr. Tusi Avegalio, Chief of Samoan people
Towards the end of the ceremony, we raised our glasses together to pay deep respect to this great woman. Finally, we all followed her last wish and scattered strands of her hair into the forest to build nests for the birds. At that moment, her love and care seemed to be transformed into every breeze in the forest, forever existing between heaven and earth.
Elizabeth always pursued the meaning of “home” throughout her life. Her home is not only a shelter, but also a spiritual harbor in harmony with nature. She said, “Home is not just a shelter within walls, but a resting place for the soul.” Now that she has chosen to live forever in this natural place, her home has transcended space and blended into the mountains, forests, breezes and birdsong.
May she rest in peace, and may her love and wisdom continue to inspire the world – –
Closing ceremony: crystal singing bowl
Speaker Leigh-Wai Doo, former Honolulu City Council member
