From letters by visitors who had taken objects from national parks in Hawaii, collected in the art book Ah Ah, by Ryan Thompson, which was published last month by The Ice Plant.

Aloha.

The other day I found this rock that I had taken from your beautiful island on my honeymoon five years ago.

I removed it with full knowledge of Pele’s rule against taking any part of her island.

Our lives have been a living hell since we took it.

The bad luck started with the death of my husband in a car accident.

Three house fires over seven years, all after having remodeled.

Cancer has plagued my family (including myself).

I am so sorry I took this.

Please return it to Hawaii’s earth.

I should bring it back myself, but I can’t wait until my next visit.

I humbly beg your forgiveness.

Sorry to Madame Pele.

We are hopeful this gesture will reverse our fortunes.

I hope this helps.

I will exhale.

God bless the gods.