Belonging to what has now become know, for rather infamous reasons, as the 'Windrush Generation', were between 60 and 95 years old.
Looking at the world through the prism of our dear friend, I was struck with the thought that. Considering her poor health, and notwithstanding the dignity, calmness and humility with which she presented herself.
This could very well turnout to be her last birthday party with her family and us, her friends and friends of friends.
As life and living goes, our friend could be counted amongst those who have had a reasonably 'good and long life.'
And, if her children are accurate, she has come to terms with the fact that her time might be near, and is 'ready to go.' For the world to take its leave of her, as it were.
But this is not only a personal phenomenon; it is a generational and social one.
Because, looking at our friend, in her advance years, and looking at the ages of her friends who have hailed from across West Indies.
I was struct by the poignancy of the probability that, in another decade or two, the local 'Windrush Generation' of this local town, will have disappeared from its visible life, and be consigned to its demographic history.
Somewhat Like a 'demographic forest' which, in the course of time, has reclaimed its near original state, except for the less visible descendants of our friend and her immigrant compatriots.
This are of the country will bear little testimony to them having ever been integral and much valued members of the local community.
Poignant it might seem, and probably is, for those who contemplate on it. But, like death and the fate of people through the course of time.
It is no tragedy; it is just the how it is, and should be accepted for the 'norm' which it is.
It is the way of live that the present can only be transformed, by giving way to the future. Just as how the past had had to be removed, in order to enable the creation of the present.
But for now, for our dear friend, her family members and her friend, for the strangers who do not know of her or, probably, of the 'Windrush Generation.'
Her 95th Birthday Party has presented us with the opportunity to celebrate her life, and to enjoy the moment, as we navigate the journey of life, on borrowed time.
And, for that, and the way she has lived her life and been a positive role model, we thank and wish her well. At the closing stage of her life, and her interactive role in the lives of others.
Thank you, Mrs E!
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