Acting Governor General of Barbados, Sir Philip Greaves aids centenarian Violet Gaskin in reading her birthday card, as his Aide-de-Camp, Captain Ashton Caddle and Gaskin’s two daughters Monica Wilkinson, right, and Dorothy Crick look on.
Sometimes life will prove difficult, other times it will be easy, but whatever life throws at you, work your way through it and be thankful.
This critical piece of advice was dished out by Barbados’ latest centenarian Violet Ernesta Gaskin, for the benefit of all Barbadians, as she reflected on her life and her longevity, during her 100th birthday celebration yesterday.
Gaskin, who resides at Ricks Land, Thorpes, St. James, had the pleasure of a visit from Acting Governor General of Barbados, Sir Philip Greaves, who brought her wine, flowers and a special birthday card, which he cheerfully read to her. Minister of Industry, International Business, Commerce and Small Business Development, Donville Inniss, who serves as the Parliamentary Representative for the Constituency of St. James South, was also on hand to celebrate the centenarian’s big day and he presented her with a birthday cake and a special award, in the presence of Gaskin’s daughters Monica Wilkinson and Dorothy Crick and other relatives and friends.
“100 years ain’t a 100 days. You have to meet with some ups and downs sometimes,” Gaskin said on reflection.
“It was hard, rough and tough, I must tell you, but I try and bear it and instead of sitting down (to) cry, I get up and try. That is all I could tell you. When the hardness comes, you try and bear it and you pray to God. You try and be satisfied. Sometimes it will be hard and sometimes it will be soft, (but) you give God praise and thanks,” the sprightly centenarian declared.
With a beaming smile, she later added, “So you all must do the same thing. Be thankful however life come and wunna make it to one hundred or more.”
Speaking on the family’s behalf, Dawn-Marie Williams described her great grandmother, better known as “Gran-Gran” to all, as “a remarkable God-fearing woman”. She noted that Gaskin, who was born on October 5, 1917 was raised in Halls Village, St. James and as a young girl attended St. John Baptist Church and School.
“Gran-Gran is the proud mother of five, with two deceased. She has 16 grandchildren and many great grands and great, great grands. She was self-employed for most of her working years and always stated that it was hard work in those years that prepared her to face life’s circumstances, without complaining,” Williams stated.
“We thank God for the legacy of this wonderful, selfless woman that we are very proud to call our own. Happy 100th birthday,” she announced. (RSM)