Rupert George chats with Marion Cornelius.ST. JOHN'S, Antigua and Berbuda (Antigua Sun), June 4, 2007:
Remembering their “Olden golden years”, a poem recited by Faith Carlisle, the governor-general’s daughter, centenarian Marion Cornelius, you may remember her dancing at her 100th birthday, echoed the sentiments expressed in the poem when she expressed her gratitude for her life.
Smiling, the beautifully aged woman leaned over to me and said,
“My dear, I’m enjoying my old age far better than my young age.”
Raising my eyebrow, I respond, “Oh really?”
“Of course, I don’t have all that hard work to do any more. All I have to do now is eat, sleep and praise my God. Is now I’m really enjoying doing nothing at all.”
This is what you could probably call enjoying a sweet rest after years of hard work, and believe me, Marion is doing just that.
Yesterday, over warm cups of tea and delectable pastry, friends and family gathered at the Government House to celebrate the life of 14 centenarians, yes 14, right here in Antigua.
Although only seven could make it, the afternoon was a wonderful reminder of the importance of not only life, but of the contributions that our older members in society still continue to make.
Cornelia Michael, always fond of the older members of society, began the recognition of centenarians in 1976 with the assistance of then Governor Sir Wilfred Jacobs.
After his death, Governor-General Sir James Carlisle and his wife gracefully and earnestly carried on the mantle with much vigour and sincerity. In fact, Michael shared she really enjoyed working with them as they’ve extended the tribute by visiting these centenarians not just on their century, but every year after until they take their final bow.
Laughing with some of the honourees, Sir James recalled some of their past stories, indicating his attention to the details of their lives they’ve shared with him. During his address, he made special mention of the fact that the elderly are not longer subscribing to this “old and in bed” stigma of many before them.
Rather, they’re up and about and as Marion Cornelius said, enjoying their lives now. Commenting on the stylish attire of the women gathered, and the dapper appearance of the men, Sir James thanked them all for being there, noting that for some, this was their first visit to the Government House in their life.
It was Lady Carlisle’s idea to bring all the centenarians together for this recognition, giving them a chance to also mingle with each other.
The “olden golden” celebrants in attendance included
* William Kirwan (103) a resident at the Golden Years Manor in Radio Range;
* Irene Jones (101) of Pares Village;
* Evelyn Lady Davis (101) South Street (Foundation Mix);
* Helena Philip (101) of Pestaina Street;
* Rupert George (101) Old Runway;
* Mary-Ann Williams (101) of Parham;
* Marion Cornelius (100) of Willikies; and
* Anthony Jarvis (100) of St. John’s Street.
Sadly, another centenarian who should have attended the tea party was George Cornelius who died last Wednesday at age 102.
Last year, the governor-general reported that Antigua celebrated 14 centenarians. Thus far, there have been 14 so far this year, with more, once life is spared, along the way. Sydney Walling, for instance, will celebrate his 100th birthday in July.
Taking the centenarians down memory lane, the Lebanon Trio sang a number of old church hymns that would have jogged the memories of the honourees.
Sitting adjacent to William Kirwan, the eldest centenarian in attendance, I watched as the dapperly dressed man nodded his head in time to the music, his now small and wrinkled fingers, slightly twisted with age, moved up and down in time with the keyboard, and closing his eyes ever so often, he sang along with the Trio.
Between the seven gathered, you had seven hundred years’ worth of personal memories as well as memories of Antigua – its changes, evolution and growth into what it is today, perhaps an accomplishment technologically, and even socially where socio-economics and race are concerned; but perhaps in terms of social grace, morals and respect for self and others, there are still lessons to be taught and learned from these people who have lived so long.
Laughing with some young girls who attended the tea party, Lady Carlisle was more than happy to introduce them to the centenarians, commenting, “You see girls, you don’t have to die at 16 … or 48.”
A lesson that should be heeded by all, at 100 plus, these people all sharing an impeccable faith in God, looked at peace with their lives.
So the question remains, should you be blessed to reach 100 and be of sound mind, will you also reflect on your life and know that you lived a good life and can now rest with ease? If not, there’s still time to make your life one worth living and remembering.
By Zia
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