Loving News of the Week March 22, 2021
Mrs. Beatrice Johnson, Miss Bea to one and all, celebrated her 100th birthday on March 15 with a reception for family and friends at Loving Missionary Baptist Church. According to the Johnson family more than 150 people stopped by to wish Miss Bea the best as she embarked on her second century of living. The reception was organized by Miss Bea’s grandchildren--Audra Johnson Gonzales, Michael Johnson, Elvira Johnson Groves, and Ashley Owens Jones. Miss Tilda Hadnot and Mrs. Lucinda Hadnot also participated in the event planning and execution.
To say that a good time was had by all would be an understatement. Good food was provided by the ladies of the church. Music was provided by Miss Bea’s great grandson DJ Morris Groves. The cake was created by local baker Joanna Lewellen who outdid herself with the massive single layer chocolate and pecan extravaganza. The church’s fellowship hall was full of life and laughter and joy. At the center of it all sat Miss Bea receiving her well wishers one at time for what seemed like forever.
Some dedicated observation on my part immediately identified the reason why the reception line was so slow moving. The problem--if it was a problem--was Miss Bea herself who took the time to visit with each well wisher for several minutes. Not that anyone complained. All present were of the opinion that Miss Bea was entitled to do just as she pleased on her 100th birthday, so folks waited patiently for their turns to speak and hug her neck. When my turn came, I bent to give Miss Bea a birthday hug and to ask how she was enjoying her party. She replied that she was having the time of her life. She commented on how well mannered everyone was and how patiently they waited to visit with her. She mentioned how interesting her guest’s lives were and how much news they had to share with her. Then she asked me what I was up to these days. I spent the next several minutes telling her all about my work at the Loving Star Herald, and about the interviews I had just done with candidates to replace our retiring mayor. She asked me some questions about issues important to her such as upgrades to Haverford Park and historic preservation efforts in downtown Loving.
As I walked away I was struck by how up to date Miss Bea was about local issues, but mostly I was amazed by her avid interest in what I was doing and what I was thinking. I left the encounter feeling like she had just interviewed me quite thoroughly and gotten me to venture opinions on local issues that I generally would keep to myself in the name of objectivity. I admit to staying close to her chair and eavesdropping on her interactions for maybe thirty minutes after that. She treated everyone exactly the same. She graciously accepted well wishes and hugs, but quickly turned the conversation away from herself and back onto her guest. She asked questions and gathered information from all. She made each person she talked with feel important, cared for and listened to.
We often turn to the old in search of wisdom and advice. We want to know what their secrets to long life and happiness might be so that we can ignore their advice and do as we please. I think Miss Bea demonstrated some of the real secrets to a long and happy life through her actions rather than her words. Even on her 100th birthday, she was much more interested in others than in herself. She listened much more than she spoke. She was kind and gracious in response to kindness and graciousness. Simple actions equal simple advice. Advice worth taking. Lesson we should take to heart and employ rather than ignore. Happy Birthday Miss Bea and thank you.
