Centenarians

A few years ago, I was privileged to attend a birthday party for a centenarian. During the ceremony, there was a procession, and each of us greeted the honoree. When I greeted her, it did not appear that she recognized me, but I was ok with that, because I had met her many years prior. I was simply honored to be in her presence. About a year ago, I visited a lady in the nursing home who was 104 at the time. She has since passed on, but I felt something special about meeting her. I have always had a special connection in my heart toward older people, and being acquainted with a centenarian does something special for me. I sense that God shares such ones with us for his own loving purpose, and if I can consume something from them, I am blessed and the better for it. Another centenarian that I have known most of my life turned 100 this year. It has been 50 years or more since I last saw her, but I remember her well as I was growing up in the community less than ten miles from her. Her husband was a kind and hard working gentleman, and they had lots of children as did my parents. I saw her on occasions when she visited my mother, and I was very observant of her active community and school involvement. I noted that she was dedicated and active in matters pertaining to the betterment of people. As I look back over the years, I now see her as a gentle giant and a lady of peace so fitting of the name she bares. It's just past 4 AM as I write this, and I'm writing because after awakening for a bathroom visit, I could not return to sleep. Such as endearing lady, a countenance most beautiful and gentle. Having known Mrs. Peace since childhood, I feel honored that such a one aided in my sleeplessness and took charge of my memory this early Wednesday morning. I am inspired by her life and enriched by her longevity. 120220PS