Yesterday, I had the absolute privilege of attending NSW Parliament House to witness a Guiness World Record title be smashed with My Guardian bringing together 150 centenarians for lunch.
The room was literally buzzing with over 15,000 years of life experience and wisdom all in one place.
I was beyond excited to learn as much as I could from these amazing people – I only wish I had hours and hours more to ask questions!
With my focus of women’s health and wellness, I mostly chatted with the women (who outnumbered the men btw). One of the questions I asked them ‘what would you tell your 50 year old self?’ – and I loved hearing their answers which included:
- Just do it!
- Keep moving
- Travel often
- Enjoy life
- Be content
- Be a good person
- Be energetic
My favourite message came from Edna was almost 103. She said:
‘live the life you want to, not how others want you to’.
One of the biggest stand outs for me was that all these women had a gratitude practice (not that they would probably call it that!). Time and time again women told me that they felt grateful for their lives – which were full of ups and downs and twists and turns.
100 year old Betty, summed it up perfectly:
‘I’ve had a glorious life’
Another thing that stood out – how beautifully presented these women were. They all made an effort and it showed. There was a mix of stunning elegance to gorgeous glamour and I found it so inspiring. (And it reminded me that it’s important to get out of my track pants more often, dress up, show up and look after my appearance as that’s part of feeling good about yourself and also impacts your health.)
Although there were many walkers and wheelchairs in the room, there were also women who had amazing posture and simply walked in and out of the event unaided (it was sometimes hard to tell who was the centenarian and who was the children escorting them!). One amazing lady even wore heels (I can’t even wear heels!).
Some of the other tips the women shared were to keep active – physically and mentally. Many of the women I spoke to (even the 102 and 103 year olds!) still lived in their own homes (generally with some help) which was very inspiring.
I love the way one lady was a bit annoyed that it took so long for her glass of red wine to arrive. Let’s just say that this seems to confirm that the occasional glass of wine is good for you – she was positively beaming as he sipped it!
My Guardian did such a great job bringing all these centenarians together – from a fancy lunch, arranging transport to the beautiful table decorations (I smiled as I saw women sneaking the table flowers into their bags and walkers on the way out).
Founders Jad Habers and Diala Azzi obviously consider My Guardian as more than a business – I watched them speak to so many of the centenarians and their families and in his speech, Jad talked about how we should recognise and celebrate our elders as living pillars of our nation.
My Guardian’s motto of compassion, community and the belief that every life deserves dignity was displayed so well at the event. I think a room full of smiling faces (including mine) showed that this was a day to remember and an opportunity to recognise how much these amazing people contribute to society.
As a 57 year old woman, I came away from the event feeling grateful, inspired and excited.
If I live to 100 (which is my intention), then I still have 43 years of living and learning to do.
I’ll now keep reminding myself to be grateful for all the good, bad and everything in between of my life.
And, that I really am just getting started – so enjoy the journey!