1 month shy of her 113th birthday, Canada’s oldest person shares some wisdom

The Oldest Wisdom: Margaret Romans Shares the Secrets of a Long and Fulfilling Life

Margaret Romans, who is just one month shy of celebrating her 113th birthday, is not only the oldest person in Canada but also a treasure trove of wisdom. Born in Latvia in 1912, Margaret has lived through some of the most transformative events of the 20th century, and her story is one of resilience, gratitude, and an unwavering curiosity about the world. Now residing in a seniors’ home in Montreal, Margaret reflects on her life with a sense of contentment and joy, crediting her longevity to a positive outlook, a grateful heart, and a mindset that always looks forward.

A Life Rooted in Gratitude and Positivity

Margaret’s journey began in Latvia, where she grew up surrounded by a loving family and a vibrant community. She recalls her early years with fondness, describing them as filled with happiness and simplicity. However, her life took a dramatic turn with the Soviet Union’s occupation of Latvia in the 1940s. It was during this tumultuous period that Margaret and her late husband, Heinrich Romans, made the bold decision to leave their homeland behind and start a new life in Canada. This move, she says, is one of her most cherished memories, as it brought her to a country she would come to love and call home.

Building a Life in Canada with Love and Purpose

After settling in Montreal in 1947, Margaret and Heinrich dedicated themselves to building a fulfilling life. Heinrich worked as an engineer, while Margaret pursued her passion for teaching and art. She became a community art teacher at the YMCA, a role that allowed her to share her love for creativity and learning with others. Her family describes her as a woman whose thirst for knowledge and zest for life have remained unchanged over the years. Even in her advanced age, Margaret remains deeply engaged with the world around her, staying informed about local, national, and global events. Whether it’s through conversations with her family or listening to the radio, she is always eager to learn more.

Family and Legacy: A Woman of Strength and Wisdom

Margaret’s family admires her immensely, not just for her longevity but for the values she has instilled in them. Her grand-nephew, Juris Terauds, fondly describes her as someone who is always looking forward, whether it’s to spending time with loved ones or staying updated on current events. Margaret’s ability to embrace life with enthusiasm and optimism has left a lasting impact on her family. Her legacy is one of strength, resilience, and a deep love for learning.

Secrets to a Long and Happy Life: Margaret’s Timeless Advice

When asked about the secret to her long and fulfilling life, Margaret’s answer is simple yet profound: “Be curious about the world around you. Never stop learning, and never hold onto grudges.” She emphasizes the importance of education, saying, “Study, study, and study. Learn, learn, and learn. What you have in your head, no one can take that away.” For Margaret, knowledge is not just power but a key to understanding the world and connecting with others. Her advice is a testament to her belief in the power of lifelong learning and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook on life.

Celebrating Life with Joy and Anticipation

As Margaret approaches her 113th birthday on March 16, she is already looking forward to the celebration. Surrounded by friends and family, she plans to toast to another year of life with her favorite drink, a classic martini. For Margaret, every day is an opportunity to express gratitude for the blessings in her life and to look forward to what the future holds. Her story is a reminder that age is just a number and that a life lived with purpose, curiosity, and gratitude can be truly extraordinary.