This story arc is not much different from many fathers or mothers who are trying to raise their children in this crazy world.
‘The Finest Hours’ has Miraculous Rescue but Misses the Mark
The Finest Hours is the classic story of man against nature and how the worse of times can bring the best out of us.
4 Reasons I Am Not Ashamed of My Suicidal Thoughts
After a failed suicide attempt, Keola Birano realized he needed to embrace his suicidal thoughts. — I feel my world collapsing on me as I stare at a bottle of pain killers. My hands shake uncontrollably as the voices within beg for the pain to end. I grab my pills and try to muster up the courage to take them…
How Forgiveness Restored My Faith in Myself and Humanity
He discovered the key to forgiveness after a suicide attempt ended his church mission and tested his faith.
Does Dinner With The Family Matter To You?
How a commercial about family meals helped him reevaluate his relationship with dinner and how it affects his life today.
Why You Should Think Twice Before Labeling Your Child A Good Kid
When he made a mistake in class he learned of the power labels had on his life. — In one motion I shove my classmate across the room. He tumbles over some chairs and lands on his ass. I taunt him to stand up and fight. He looks stunned as I hop around waiting to pounce. My temper…
4 Things I Learned From Dealing With Someone Who Is Suicidal
When a friend admits to suicidal thoughts Keola uses the story of his own failed suicide attempts to save his friend’s life.
Boys Can’t Have Long Hair: Discussing Gender With Your Children
He thought gender differences were simple to explain but talking to his five year old helped him realize that’s far from the truth.
Who Are You If You’re Not The Color Of Your Skin?
In response to a youtube video Keola tries to tackle the question, “Who am I if I’m not labeled?” — “I am not Black.” These are the first words that comes out of Richard Williams mouth as his video dives into the power of labels in our lives. He uses a powerful metaphor comparing our bodies to…
The Weekend I Learned About Racism First Hand
He went to California to attend a wedding and instead found racism. — Hungry from the plane ride from Hawaii to California I rush out of my motel hoping to find a diner, fast food restaurant, really anything that could satisfy the rumblings in my tummy. I didn’t pack much in the way of clothes since I had only…
Thank You For Loving Me: An Open Letter To My Wife
Could you fall in love with someone with a history of depression and a suicidal past? This man’s wife did.
3 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Help People In Need
He did all he could to save his mom but realized you shouldn’t always help people in need. — “F#%k!” There was no better word to describe how I felt at that moment as I sat on my bed feeling dazed and confused while trying to understand what I had just heard. My mother had returned to her abusive relationship with…
Don’t Take It Personally: An Open Letter To A New Father
A new father’s cry for help inspires Keola to write a letter to all the fathers who struggle with a crying baby.
Are You Killing Your Child’s Childhood?
During hard financial times Keola wonders if his children are losing their childhood.
The Important Lesson The Ocean Can Teach Us About Life
He lived his life near the ocean, but only on a recent vacation did he uncover the true power of the current in shaping our lives.
Why No One Heard My Cries For Help
He never cried for help until he wrote a poem that no one heard. How can kids like him get the help they need?