A Message from Dad, Pop Pop, Uncle Gary

by Gary Hooser

As a father, grandfather, and uncle, I’d like to have a word with you all.

“You ALL” means family, friends, hanai ohana, and all who are kindred spirits in this journey of life. While I certainly don’t know everything, I have learned a few things over the years that I’d like to share.

My goal is to help make your path forward a little smoother, your journey up the mountain a little swifter, and the joy and fulfillment of it all perhaps a bit brighter.

First, however, you must do something for me.

Please take a few minutes, read the lyrics and listen to the music of Bob Dylan’s “Forever Young”.

Can you do this now, please? I’ve posted a link to make it easy at garyhooser.blog – I’ll wait. Thank you.

As brother Bob says in his opening refrain:

May God bless and keep you always / May your wishes all come true / May you always do for others / And let others do for you / May you stay forever young

So, how can I add to this? What wisdom or basic advice does Dad, Pop Pop, and Uncle have for you that can top the words of Bob Dylan?

You are a unique individual with unlimited potential to achieve whatever goal you set your sights on. Of this I have no doubt whatsoever.

You must set out your goals on paper, develop a plan to get there, stay laser-focused, adapt the plan as needed, enroll others to help, and work very, very hard.

Some basic truths of success: Let go of your fears of doing the wrong thing or making mistakes.

Be your authentic self. Follow your na’au. Always being truthful in your communications is essential.

When you say you’re going to do something, come through on it. Your reputation as an honest, truthful, dependable human being is everything.

Get rid of negative friends with bad habits. Drugs and alcohol get in the way.

Surround yourself with those who share your core values.

Asking for help is an essential component of success. It goes without saying that we can accomplish much more when we work with others.

Never hesitate to ask. If your cause is worthy, if you have a plan to get there, and are willing to do the work, then ask others to join and help you.

If your goal requires money, then ASK. You will be asking adults. Let them make the decision to tell you yes or no, but if you believe in your mission, then ASK.

Remember, when you come against a roadblock, there are ALWAYS “work-arounds”.

When faced with a seemingly insurmountable challenge preventing you from reaching your objective, NEVER GIVE UP, but instead seek out other ways to accomplish the same goal.

Thank profusely those who help, and forgive gently those who fall short. There is no shame in losing.

So to my friends, family, and extended ohana, sorting through the thicket of life (as I am still), remember always:

1. Your potential is limitless.
2. Set your goals, plan your work, work your plan.
3. Ask for help. Help others.
4. Surround yourself with good people.
5. Work hard. Always know there’s a path to victory.
6. Always, Always, Always – speak the truth.
7. When you fall, get up, get back into the ring.
8. Let go of the fear. Be your authentic self. Follow your na’au.
9. Celebrate the wins, reward the work, learn from the mistakes.
10. Drink water, eat right, go out and walk – every single day.

And if you ever need help from Dad, Pop Pop, or Uncle – just call.

GARY HOOSER is a former Hawaiʻi State Senator and Majority Leader.

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