Diamonds

We’re all living longer. What’s more, today’s older people seem a lot younger than they did, say, 50 years ago. Today’s 65-year-olds are still right in the thick of their (working) lives.

When it comes to their clothing, too, they are often indistinguishable from the average person in their forties. And amongst all those people out running and cycling in the woods and parks at the weekend, there are (also) a great many people aged 65 and over.

Several times a year, we, the municipality of Apeldoorn, treat all couples celebrating their diamond wedding anniversary (60 years of marriage) to a high tea as a gesture of congratulations. And as we are living longer, there are more and more couples reaching this wonderful milestone. I find it impressive. It is no coincidence that 60 years is called a diamond wedding anniversary. After all, a diamond is precious, dazzling and virtually indestructible.

Last Saturday was this year’s final Diamond High Tea. And there they were again, all those – generally speaking – still very sprightly people in their eighties and nineties, chatting away happily amongst themselves. I always really enjoy these gatherings. They’re so festive, and everyone is so happy. And I don’t think I’m the only one who enjoys them, because most people’s eyes are beaming afterwards.

As well as being enjoyable, I also find these get-togethers valuable.

It really is something special when two people choose each other and support one another through life, through thick and thin, in good times and bad. But beyond that: so many wonderful things can come of it! Not just for one’s own family, but also for the sense of community in a neighbourhood, a club or elsewhere. Bonds between people: when they are strong and loving, they are the foundation on which we all stand. And that is something worth celebrating.

I’m already looking forward to next year’s High Teas.

Ton Heerts