The Hero.
Lorenzo Thomas is 98 years young. His long, storied life has been full of love, worldly adventures and even some celebrity friends. The memories of such a full life are what keep the young-at-heart Thomas going. In the sharing of those stories lies his purpose and passion for living.
The retired Tuskegee Airman has traveled from one end of the Earth to the other, collecting tales and experiences all along the way. From his adventures in South Africa, to hobnobbing with the likes of Bob Hope, Red Skelton and Kirk Douglas, to the honor of being blessed by the Pope, the story well never runs dry.
Several years ago, Thomas' story-telling abilities were threatened when he was struck by a debilitating stroke. With most of his family gone, he reached out to Neighborhood Centers' Peavy Senior Center for recovery support.
He got more than he bargained for when Neighborhood Centers helped connect him with a caregiver to facilitate his rehabilitation. He also received help getting back to his active lifestyle and social life through a new set of friends who were ready and willing to live through his memories: his fellow seniors at the center.
Well on the recovery road and with his speaking skills very much intact, Thomas visits the senior center every day. There, he sees friends and recounts tales of life's lessons and loves. He also serves as a minister, sharing the Bible's teachings with all who will listen.
Although he loves to share stories of yesterday, Lorenzo does not dwell in the past. His philosophy is forward-looking and inspiring to everyone he meets.
"Keep living and find your purpose in life," he says. "God didn't put us here to randomly roam around. He gave us each a purpose, and it's up to us to find and fulfill it before we die."
What is his advice for a long, happy life?
"Keep busy," he responds firmly. "Don't lose interest in what's around you or in people. Once you lose that, you lose everything."
To that, Neighborhood Centers can only add, "Amen."
Lorenzo Thomas passed away on June 2, 2010, 43 days before his 100th birthday. Mr. Thomas was an inspirational and valued friend to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.