HONOLULU (KHON2) -- For some it doesn't feel like it has been a year, and for others it feels like its been a decade since the fires devastated Lahaina and Kula.
"Honestly it feels like it happened just yesterday. Just the amount of vivid memories we have of the day of and after, they're just forever etched in our memory," said one Lahaina resident, Paele Kakona.
Many took time to reflect on how difficult this day was last year.
"Were just fortunate to be alive. We were in the fire and barely escaped with our lives and we're thankful for the community coming together and just come together as a family to build Lahaina strong," added Tony Fiore, another Lahaina resident.
Many were happy to be surrounded by old neighbors and familiar faces who have since moved to other parts of the island or state.
"We've had time to reflect and it's not really about what you lost, I look at it as what was gained," said Briana Fiore. "I think community and what we have is memories and love for Lahaina and the people and the history and material things come and go, but we have our family and an amazing home here."
"I think it's good for healing just to bring everyone together and honor Lahaina and how strong we are, Lahaina strong," Briana continued.
The U.S. Coast Guard and Maui Fire Department also participated in the paddle out and cheered on as the helicopter dropped flowers on the paddlers.
"It's a necessary thing for the community and the people of Lahaina, but outside the negatives there's been a lot of positives from this tragedy and out of the tragedy comes triumph and as you can see it's brought everyone together in this one capacity," said Peter O'Riordan of Sea Maui Catamaran.
"It's a heavy day for sure if anything it's just proof of our strength and resilience as a community that we're still here and made it this far," O'Riordan continued. "Shows community coming together, show honor and respect to those who perished and people being united and holding strong."
There were a few tears and lots of hugs.
Some people said they were feeling surprisingly okay.
And while this definitely doesn't bring closure to everyone, it helps heal by being with others who endured such a horrific event together.
Many said they do expect it all to hit them at the memorial event Thursday evening.