90 years young

One of my favorite parts of living in a new culture is getting to see how people celebrate important events. Last night we were invited to a birthday party of a gentleman who was turning 90 years old. Everyone refers to Sylvester as Papa and it was very difficult to figure out who were his biological children and grandchildren because practically everyone referred to him as Papa. We were seated in the community center as his children handed out appetizers and drinks. Celebrations here tend to be pretty formal regardless of occasion so we were of course prepared for good food (hey man, we're poor volunteers!). Mr. Joseph was escorted to the head table where a cake and juice was prepared for him. He didn't look to thrilled to be in front of everyone, but he toughed it out.



One of his sons who also happens to be a pastor opened the event with prayer and a few remarks on just how incredible of a man Mr. Joseph is to this day. He told stories of his father building just about anything from furniture to drums; how he was a perfect tailor who often had piles of clothes from people asking for help sewing. One of the biggest things that struck me though is a story he told about the gentleness of Mr. Joseph. How he was a tough father who expected the best out of his children, worked hard to provide for 6 children and never missed an opportunity to teach life lessons in the most gentle manner. I went with a fellow volunteer, Jon, and we were talking about how it would be so awesome to be able to sit down and just talk to Mr. Joseph about life in Grenada and how things have evolved to the present day. Grenada itself has only had electricity for a little more then 15 years and many times the water is still not safe to drink. To be 90 years old means he has seen some of the biggest growth happen to Grenada. That's incredible.



So after Mr. Josephs son spoke of stories of his father he opened the floor to other people in attendance to stand up and speak about memories of Mr. Joseph and send warm wishes his way. About a handful of people stood up one by one reliving moments of gratitude and life lessons that Mr. Joseph had taught them. I couldn't help to watch people's faces as these stories were told like they were just yesterday. I found myself hoping that I see 90 years and people have these kind words to say about me one day.