This April I attended this special celebration and was inspired to share…
She’s seated in front of the window on a typically fickle Pacific Northwest spring day. A radiant contrast to the weather. Pink jacket. A corsage of roses. A flowered dress. Pearls. Her guests paying no mind to clouds nor intermittent rain showers. Undeterred by street parking after the church lot fills up. Every table in the long room is full. Helpers line the walls with extra chairs to accommodate more well-wishers. With confident strength she addresses the room of family and friends. Accounting for her long life. Graciously, she spends the moments naming loved ones who make her life wonderful. Those in the room and those who’ve gone on. Family. Faith. Commitment. Love. It colors her barely lined cheeks as she speaks on. It’s reflecting in our faces as she greets us one to one. This is a very special birthday party. She is 105 years young.
For her many inquirers she provides a gift envelope.
Tucked inside is a 12 point (partial) list and a sweet bonus tip, advising us how to follow her footsteps:
• Be curious about everything
• Love people
• Be active
• Eat in moderation
• Find no need for stimulants
• Grow old gracefully and kindly
• Avoid being judgmental
• Be slow to anger
• Do not bear grudges
• Sleep to heal and nap when you are tired
• Be aware of changes and change with the times
• Have Faith and Believe
And enjoy a little chocolate!
