He's seen the change from oil lamps to electric lighting, and from the advent of radio to television and the computer. And modes of transportation shift from the horse and buggy to self-driving automobiles. At 106, Townshend's Warren Patrick finds happiness in every new day and gives thanks for it every night.
He shared his thoughts with Vermont Edition on the keys to a long, happy life and why he still loves Vermont to this day after moving to Jamaica from Connecticut in 1945.
Patrick now resides at Valley Cares' West River Valley Senior Housing in Townshend. When VPR's Ric Cengeri showed up to interview him, Patrick was ready with a two-page, single-spaced account of his life that he had composed on his electric typewriter.
Following the interview, the 106-year-old wonder was back outside building a snowman.
6 Tips For A Long, Happy Life From A 106-Year-Old Vermonter
During our conversation, Patrick shared some wisdom on living a long, happy life:
1. Keep moving.
Although Warren Patrick jokes that his secret to a long life is “no drugs, no liquor, no women and no fun,” the real secret is staying active.
“You keep moving. I'm the most active person here. In good weather, doesn't have to be perfect weather, I go outside and take a walk for about a quarter mile and cruise around the building. So I don’t just sit and wait for the next meal.”
2. Stay up to date on current events.
Despite his age, Patrick makes sure to keep up with current events.
“The best thing is to know what's going on in the world or in the country. That always intrigues me.”
3. Keep your mind sharp.
Staying mentally active is just as important as remaining physically active.
“Keep your head active as well as your body, and do something … I do crossword puzzles all the time.”
4. Be nice.
“I have lived a fruitful life and not strayed from my path of honesty and decency … I think I’ve done what most people should do — respect the rights of others.”
5. No regrets.
“I can’t think of anything I would have rather done if I had the chance. No, I think that I’ve lived the life that I wanted to live if I had to choose before I started. I have no-- very few, if any — regrets.”
6. Live in Vermont.
“Plenty of trees, plenty of woods, plenty of sunshine and some hills and valleys … I wouldn’t swap it for any place I know of.”
Broadcast live on Monday, Feb. 19, 2018 at noon; rebroadcast at 7 p.m.
