I didn't grow up in the islands. I grew up in the land of fry sauce, snow-capped mountains, and "I'm fine" said with a tight smile. Emotions were a bit like Jell-O salad: colorful, but often covered up and served with whipped cream. Then I moved to the South Pacific Islands. Let's just say, it was like going from muted pastels to full technicolor. Suddenly, emotions weren't something you hid in your journal; they were woven into daily life like the laughter of kids chasing chickens.  I talk about some obvious differences between the places I have lived and share my gratitude for both worlds. I tell what the differences are and explain how they both bring much to my life and contribute to my coaching parents and teaching about emotional intelligence.