WHAT would the new 70 look like?
We think of a 90-year-old lady as someone with platinum white locks tied in a severe bun lulling herself in her rocking chair with all the memories of her youth. She would be clothed in her “duster” with a rosary wrapped around her hand giving thanks for a blessed life and for all the people who have been kind and even the ones who were not as kind. Her day would be spent in more “siesta” time and in her waking hours watching a “teleserye.” This would be the prototype.
But not Tita Xens. Xenia Coscolluela Lizares turned 90 and she is far from the norm with the exception of the rosary in her hand during the quiet time she spends with the Lord.
Tita Xenia is the prototype of the new 70. Vibrant, scintillating, active, joyful, and in constant interaction with family and friends. Active with her weekday mahjong sessions, and on Saturday evening, dolled up and ready to swing her twinkle toes away with her fellow ballroomers.
The new 70 is alert (despite the unwelcome deafness creeping in). Tita Xenia is vibrant. She has always that ready smile, laughter, and even childlike naughtiness. She loves to interact with her friends and cousins, nephews and nieces. Even with limbs which are not as agile, jetting around Asia or parts of the Philippines with her “best friend forever,” the loving, caring Gloria Galdeano and fellow travelers is a much awaited activity. Quality time with apos and apo sa tuhod is likewise a delight.
Born on the Feast of the Holy Rosary, her birthday celebration of thanksgiving for family and friendship marked the joyous occasion. It was fun, riotous even, and proof that one can be 90 without being dull and lackluster. Tita Xenia is blooming, beautiful, and brilliant.
She is the epitome that one can journey through life’s ups and downs but can still command the stellar performance in the stage called life.
Happy Birthday Tita Xenia! Enjoy more of God’s goodness in health, love of family, and friends!