I like beaches. And I like walking on beaches. During such walks, I often pick up beach rock, shells, and, occasionally, a piece of beach glass. A recent walk on the beach in Kaua’i yielded a few small pieces of lava stone. One in particular resembled a miniature volcano. A perfect momento of our trip.
Then I learned of a Hawaiian legend -- perhaps a curse to be more precise. Taking anything native from the island is destined to bring bad luck. At first, I dismissed it. There is plenty of lava on Kaua’i. Surely a few small stones would not be missed. And it appeared that the curse did not apply to stones-turned-to-jewellry. Finally, I don't consider myself to be superstitious.
However, after a few days on the Island, I grew to appreciate the respect that the islanders have for their island. 
On our last morning walk along the beach, I returned the small stones to their home. It was a matter of respect.