By Carolyn Lucas-Zenk
By Carolyn Lucas-Zenk
Stephens Media
He’s had many names, from Daddy and Pops to the old man and others kept mum. His roles are just as diverse. Over the years, he been the shield of evil, guardian of safety, keeper of comfort, mender of broken hearts and bones, best friend, adviser, breadwinner, disciplinarian, childhood hero and more.
But what has he taught you, and what legacy do you plan to leave with your own children?
In honor of Father’s Day, some Hawaii Island residents and visitors weighed in, sharing some of their favorite lessons and pearls of wisdoms from their dear dad.
FAMILY MATTERS
Hilo resident Kelsey Nakapaahu knows fatherhood is not about him, but he credits his three children — 4-year-old Khaelan, 8-year-old Isaiah and 10 year-old Nevaeh — for helping him define who he is today. Nakapaahu said he’s proud to be a dad, adding he enjoys every talk, every hang out, every hug. For him, Father’s Day means more fun with family. He said the perfect celebration is simple: Time at the beach with the family, playing in the water and then grilling something on the hibachi. Becoming a dad was “a life-changing experience,” filled with “instant love and joy,” Nakapaahu said. He thanked his own parents for teaching him invaluable lessons, as well as sharing the values and the little moments that affect one’s life. Most important, Nakapaahu said, is family. Not just having a family, but being there, staying involved and making it first priority. “Money and material things will come and go, but the irreplaceable, priceless thing is your family,” he said.
THE LITTLE
THINGS MATTER
What Colorado resident Brad Heyden appreciates most about his father is how he led by example and is a big believer in random acts of kindness. “Besides having good morals and being dedicated to his family, Dad always treated other people with respect and niceness,” Heyden said. “He knew the little things do matter. It was also not uncommon for him to look for and find the positive in every situation.” Heyden has tried to continue his dad’s caring ways and hopes his family does the same. Another legacy he wishes to leave with his three children is one of adventures. He wants them to continue to explore exciting new places and do fun activities, such as camping, hiking, fishing and snorkeling, with their own families. He believes such experiences help bring family members closer together, as well as bring fullness in life and a better understanding of the wider world.
LIVE, LOVE FULLY
Hilo resident Adam Veloria said his parents taught him the importance of family, which includes being good to each other and loving with all your heart. It’s something he hopes his son and daughter take away from him. However, he also wants them to “live life to the fullest.”
NOTHING
COMES EASY
Awesome is how Kona resident Eddie Hayward would describe fatherhood. He said it’s an honor and privilege to be a father of two girls. What he wants for his daughters, 8-year-old Eleina and 17-year-old Ashley, is the same thing his parents wanted — respectful, well-manner, caring individuals. Hayward has always told his children that “whatever they want to be, they can achieve, but nothing comes easy.” Whether they want to become a doctor, lawyer or an ocean person, he said there’s responsibility and challenges that come with that. “No matter how hard something is, if you’re willing to work, as well as believe in yourself and the task at hand, you can succeed,” he said.
BE YOU
Father’s Day is just another day for California resident Paul Newman. The father of three was at a loss of words when describing how he felt upon entering fatherhood years ago. Newman aid his own father left a big impression on him, but the lesson he remembers most is the importance of letting your child be who they are. “My father was always there, but he still let me be me. That’s what I have tried to do with him,” Newman said, pointing to his adult son at Kahaluu Bay. “I’ve let him be his own person.”
WORK HARD
California resident Scott Freehauf grew up hearing there’s no excuse for not doing your best; make good, wise, mature decisions; and constantly be better. He said his dad taught him the importance of working hard, as well as staying true to that and other values because ultimately good things will come your way. It’s a lesson he plans to pass to his 2-year-old son, Aiden.
Email Carolyn Lucas-Zenk at clucas-zenk@westhawaiitoday.com