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H
ow many of us in this world today aspire to live to
100 years or more. It is obvious that this aspiration
is one of great ambition and moreover, we have no control
to determine the future. This is in the hands of the One who
created us.
This year in Trinidad & Tobago, the Division of Aging,
Ministry of the People and Social Development found
it fitting to undertake a project designed to bring about
awareness of the number of centenarians in these beautiful
twin islands and celebrate them with a most auspicious
occasion. Full kudos must be given to all those who thought
about the ones who are at that age. Well done!
The question that troubles me is why persons who attain
such a significant age are always treated with disrespect.
Had the Division of Aging not provoked such an event, a
major milestone in the lives of a number of these folks would
have gone unnoticed. Could you imagine that? I am happy
that having the ball of movement started, emulation of this
sort will generate areas of compunction and a more positive
approach will be taken when dealing with such individuals.
Young people should grasp at the opportunity to sit and chat
with centenarians in order to gain knowledge about how life
was in their youth.
My uncle died at age 99, narrowly missing that 100 year
mark and as an ex-policeman he was able to pass on
lots of information to me about life as it was. He worked
both in Trinidad and in Tobago therefore his experiences
enabled me to compare what took place then with what is
happening now. I must say life then seemed more respectful,
more honourable. Now please do not misunderstand me,
technology has done a lot for society but respect must
resurface in order to make life much more comfortable.
When I consider the importance of mercy, while listening
to my uncle, it was very easy to detect that caring for your
neighbour played a huge role in the development of a
GIVE THANKS AND PRAISE
community. Children were taught to respect their elders, and
elders were kind to each other helping in any way possible.
So the bottom line is centenarians must be selected and
placed on high not only for their attainment but also to be
role models for society to emulate.
While the celebration that occurred a few weeks ago must
be commended no single organization should face the
responsibility of honouring our centenarians. It should be a
collective or national event. This year the emphasis appeared
to be on Trinidad. In future Trinidad and Tobago must
combine to do the research, if only to obtain the relevant
information as to exactly how many centenarians are in
both islands who must be celebrated and the event must be
alternated in order to maintain harmony. It would be nice for
Tobago to host the next celebration. I am quite sure they are
capable of putting on a good show for the elders who would
be happy to be showcased.
It is always a subject of discussion that there is a difference
or distinction between the elderly and the disabled but it is
important to note that when you are a centenarian there is a
distinct possibility that a disability is also present so to those
who are disabled, do not slip into despair as age does not
separate one from the other. What is important is life and
always remember that life is great no matter what.
Once again, blessings upon the centenarians who were
honoured! If any were excluded, and I am quite sure that
there were some, please feel proud. Let those around you fill
your surroundings with the blessings you so richly deserve
and to all who are approaching that great milestone, keep
the faith for it is only by faith you have reached this far.
Let’s make their presence felt!
Anton La Fond
Member
