I WOKE up a few days ago with a terrible cold and body pain. That was the day I had planned to visit my hometown for the seniors’ party. It was raining heavily so it was easy to go back to bed which I did.

After a few minutes, I got up and head to the shower because I made a promise to myself that no matter what I was going to celebrate with the seniors this year in Bartica. This was the 19th year and I have been contributing every year but had not attended in years. The chance to see my mom was another motivating factor. Teacher Jane Daniels travelled in the same boat from Parika and she expressed how proud she is of my achievements and reminded me of the big dreams that a young girl shared with her in high school. It is always great to remember school days.

I absolutely enjoyed every second of the five hours at the party with people who saw me grow up or knew me before I was born. I felt a bit sad because so many of them reminded me of my “gramma! who was alive the last time I attended the party. I danced with Mr Taylor the last time and he is no longer with us. Sister Dina Moore and I were reminiscing about my primary school days and when I visited her for channa and bara with lots of spicy sour. She died not long after that party. Pastor Rita was greeting her invited guests as I came into the building and she was surprised and happy to see me.

That was the intention. She invited me to give remarks and although my throat was hoarse and hurting from the cold I was excited to address the seniors who were all dressed up and looking beautiful. Going from one table to other and hugging kissing and chatting about years ago was priceless. We chatted about arthritis pains, getting old, how great God is, precious moments in the past, grandkids, great grandkids, great, great grandkids and my career. Some of them could not believe that I have a grandson but it was fun because we could have traded stories.

I was surprised at how many read the papers and listen to the radio because they were sharing things they read about my journey. I heard someone said, “You know I have to get my special personal hug” that came from my relative Linda. Every time we meet she tells me about an article she read or an interview she heard and this time it was the interview on 93.1 Real FM. She asked to tell Mr Maxwell that his morning programme is making a difference and very uplifting.

My mom and her friends, especially, Cheryl also enjoy listening to Max early in the morning. Sister Cheryl was sharing with me how much she prays for me. “You don’t have to ever be afraid or worry about anything because you are a good person and doing great things for people. We are praying for you and God got your back,” she said. These words reminded me of the words my seniors at Love and Faith shared with me.

I had not seen Mrs De Fraitas who was the community librarian in decades. She said when she reads about me in the media she remembers that young child that frequently visited the library. I have a special place in my heart for the seniors and will always contribute what I can. My friend, Eion Williams,.

and I joined the others in serving the drinks and meals on this special day. The meals were delicious but what I enjoyed the most were the homemade ice cream, black cake and ginger beer. I must congratulate Pastor Rita Brouet and team for hosting an event that made the seniors in our community feel loved and appreciated. Seniors have contributed so much to society but unfortunately little or nothing is done for them to enjoy their golden and platinum years. If we are blessed with long life we all we get there someday.

Everyone left with food hampers and other gifts. Even people in the outlining areas benefited from the food hampers such as Rivers View, Fowlmouth, Ittabali, Sacaralla Bay, Dod Point, Potaro Road and others. I was elated to learn about the many companies and individuals chipping in for this meaningful event. Thank you to Scotia Bank Bartica, Lighthouse Assembly, Pastor Gomes, Ryan and Reauben, Dino`s Enterprise, the Seventh Day Adventist Church, Integrated Security Services and many others.

This is the last Sunday before Christmas and it is a good time to think about how we can add joy to one person’s holiday season.

Best wishes to everyone for the Christmas you desire as we continue to celebrate this journey we call life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.

In the photos, I am with my mom in green and Mrs Defraitas