Aloha

by Chieko N. Okazaki

With the ringing Hawaiian greeting of "Aloha!" Chieko N. Okazaki welcomes us into a garden of goodness where the gospel has the zing and zest of ginger. Sister Okazaki shares insights from the scriptures that are personal and practical. Christ is not just the way, the truth, and the life, she reminds us. He wants to be our way, our truth, and our life. The Christian way is not dramatic, flashy, or taxing. It is do-able, satisfying, and even fun.

Genres: Religion, Lds, Nonfiction, Adult, Mormonism, Christianity, Self Help

243 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1995

About the author

Chieko N. Okazaki was the first non-Caucasian to serve on a general board of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and was a counselor in the general Relief Society presidency from 1990 to 1997. She is the author of several bestselling books and tapes. She and her husband, the late Ed Okazaki, have two sons.

Reviews

[Dannis Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first Chieko Okazaki book, after I heard her talk of the same name. Her books are easy to read a quick chapter at a time, and each chapter is an example of what she's teaching. It's all about how to find that balance between trying to please your family, do the necessary things, and yet find a way to rest, recharge, and do the things that matter from an eternal perspective.

Her writing style is very easy to read, and profound. I would read a chapter and think about it all day, before going on. I want to read more of her books.

[Sydney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not as good as Lighten Up! imo, but still a feel-good read about how to live with gratitude and serve like the Savior.

[X · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't read a lot of religious nonfiction, but I found this collection of talks touching. The author comes across as a very kind, charitable person who truly cares about her fellow children of God. The book is primarily targeted at LDS women but I'd recommend the book for any Christian (or any non-Christian with an interest in Christian books...)

[Wanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sister Okazaki was one of my favorite General Relief Society Presidency members years ago. She was an excellent speaker. She was an inspiring person.. This book had many good anecdotal examples of ways we can improve our lives. I enjoyed reading her messages.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm always grateful for what I learn from Okazaki, and I hope to be the kind of Mormon she is some day. The idea that has shifted my world view in this one were her sections on prayer. It made me realize the importance of approaching God authentically - not worrying that He'll find our anger or doubt offensive, but knowing that He loves us and knows us perfectly already, and we can gain so much by letting Him succor us in the midst of those feelings.

This did feel more like a collection of devotionals and less of a cohesive book than Lighten Up!, but they were very good devotionals.

[Pat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chieko N. Okazaki reminds us of commonsense solutions to life's problems. Instead of moaing about our problems she tells us to chose happiness: "Our happiness doesn't come because we have somehow managed to eliminate all problems...our happiness comes to us mingled with those problems and imperfections."
This book uplifts your mood.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspiring. Chieko Okazaki is an example of a strong Mormon woman and one I very much want to emulate. She makes me want to be a better Christian without feeling bad about myself for the things I haven't gotten down yet.

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love her style and warm sense of humor. She's very inspiring. I read it a long time ago, but remember I liked it.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

great read

[Marla Milligan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun read and the author does a good job giving insight on challenges in life - enjoyed it alot.

[Dad · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was important in the lives of my wife and me. We read it individually and together. The principles espoused helped us alot.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Chieko so much. She is full of unique insight and overflowing with love and compassion.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent book during my spiritual feast weekend. There were so many similar subjects covered in both books, that I wondered if this was message for me for learning I need in my life. OK, I really didn't wonder, I KNOW it was for me at this time. And then, the second to last chapter was about the Gospel Doctrine class lesson I'm teaching on Sunday. It was surreal to see the title of the lesson in one of the early paragraphs of the chapter!

[Marcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly inspiring book!

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent. Each chapter has something to be learned from. Will read again.

[Melynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a little outdated now but I enjoyed reading her stories and insights.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book when I was a Mia Maid and it is great!

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love how she teaches how to bring Christianity into every aspect of life.

[Cindy · Rating 3 out of 5]

quick, inspirational read by a very admirable lady.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has great stories and reminders to help you get through a bad day.