KUKUI: 1. The Kukui is the Hawai'i state tree (Aleurites moluccana), also known as the Candlenut tree because the Hawaiians used the rich oil of the kukui nut to burn as torch fuel and as candles.
2. A lamp, light or a torch.
3. Figuratively: A guide or leader.
About the author
Pirl studied journalism at the University of Minnesota and at the
University Of Hawaii School of Journalism, and has written parenting,
education, and travel articles for Honolulu Magazine, Hawaii Parent
magazine and The Honolulu Advertiser and other publications. She is
currently the Marketing Director and Chief Operating Officer
of Aloha Laboratories Inc., an anatomic pathology laboratory. She lives in
Honolulu with her husband and three children.