Haleiwa Hawaii –  Today was Jeffo’s day off from his work.  While on the golf course he get’s a call to take President Barack Obama for a jet ski ride; he didn’t answer his phone.  Jeffo’s reply was, “missed a chance of a lifetime”.  Jeffo and buddies have built a good reputation “Best Lifeguards on the Planet” by Honolulu Magazine December 2013.

Here’s our son Jeffery Okuyama, aka “Jeffo”, doing what he loves doing best, saving lives.

How did Jeffo get this way:

1) Show them how without fear or reservations.  He started swimming before walking.

2) Dispel myths before the children watch the TV that may teach them fear.  A good idea was taking the children to the graveyard on a full moon to share with the children how peaceful a graveyard is.  The headstones were reflecting the full moon, we enjoyed the peacefulness.

3) During a freak 5:00 am, 80 mile per hour wind storm bringing the children out from their comfortable beds to show them this  “cool” experience and opportunity was a good idea.  Tall tree’s were snapping across the street; we just had to remind the children to be careful and be focused on what’s going on… think!

4) Prayer works.  After winning the State swimming event for the Butter Fly stroke, Jeffo calls as I’m out-of-town, he asked “I prayed before the event, did that help?”

Today, Jeffo is a water safety officer for the City & County of Honolulu,  “buddy doubles” as a stunt on Hawaii Five-O, swims with sharks in their caves, hire to do commercials, has a jet ski service business, gave Heather Locklear surfing lessons, and loves taking his niece for a swim or ride on the surfboard.  Jeffo remains quiet and keeps a humble social presence. He love’s what he does, we thank God for everything.

We have three children, each one different, with different talents, skills, with the same friendly spirit with less fear than many.

Encourage and train them in the way to go.  Have fun with your children and enjoy parenting.

By Carl Okuyama