Prayer leads to long life

Barbados has yet another centenarian.
This time it is a jovial Valera Barrow, who yesterday celebrated her 100th birthday, spending a portion of it with Governor General Sir Clifford Husbands, as well as relatives and friends at her Goddard Road, Carrington Village, St Michael home.
The former seamstress, who was born in Panama and came to Barbados as a toddler, said the “secret” of her long life was her “prayer to Jesus night and day. I ask him to strengthen me and get me through life until my time is up”.
Her son Calvin, who came from England to join in the celebrations, described his mother as loving, caring and always contented.
When asked what special dinner she wanted, Barrow replied, “You can give me anything to eat but if the mind is not to it I won’t eat it,” noting that she loved “ice cream, chocolate and lots of fruits”.
Prior to a toast with the Governor General, Barrow was administered Holy Communion by Dean Frank Marshall and Reverend Joseph King of St Michael’s Cathedral. She also received a card from Queen Elizabeth II, which she was able to read adequately, despite having “cloudy” vision.
“I feel happy in the Lord. Nothing around me is wrong, praise the Lord! He gave me that blessing and I am glad for it and take it,” she said.
 She had these words of advice for young people: “Live good and live your life the way you should. Live properly and God will help you to put your mind to something good.” (MM)