U.S. citizens are known for their love of celebrating milestones, especially birthdays. So, when it was announced that the oldest living American is about to turn 116, there was absolutely no question about organizing a grand parade to honor her.
The lady in question, Hester Ford, was born in Lancaster County, South Carolina, in 1905. She has seen and experienced everything imaginable in her lifetime, from the Spanish Flu in 1918 to the COVID-19 pandemic of today. Not to mention the countless wars, political scandals, technological advancements, and cultural shifts that have taken place over the past century.
Mrs. Ford’s family members, neighbors, and admirers have been planning the extravagant parade for months. The parade route will extend for several blocks down her street, where crowds of people are expected to gather and cheer as Hester Ford, who uses a wheelchair and wears a mask, waves at them from her front porch.
The organizers of the parade have spared no expense to ensure the event is memorable and enjoyable for everyone involved. They have hired marching bands, dance troupes, acrobats, balloon artists, and even a few circus animals to perform along the way. There will be food trucks offering free refreshments, face painting stations, and photo booths where attendees can take selfies with life-size cardboard cutouts of Mrs. Ford.
The grand finale of the parade will feature a fireworks show that will light up the sky for miles around. The display will last for half an hour and will include special effects such as smoke bombs, sparklers, and patriotic music.
Of course, all of this fanfare begs the question: is it really necessary or appropriate to go to such great lengths to celebrate someone’s birthday, no matter how old they are? The answer is a resounding “Yes!”. The organizers of Hester Ford’s parade argue that she is more than just an old lady, she is an inspiration to people all over the world.
“She has overcome so much in her life, from poverty to discrimination to personal loss,” says one of Mrs. Ford’s great-grandchildren. “She has always had a positive attitude and a strong faith, even when things seemed impossible. We feel that her 116th birthday is worth celebrating not only because it’s a rare achievement, but also because it’s a testament to her spirit and resilience.”
Others point out that the parade is not just about Mrs. Ford herself, but about the larger community that she represents. “This event brings us together as a society, reminds us of our shared history and challenges, and gives us a reason to smile during a difficult time,” says a local historian. “It’s a chance for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect and appreciate each other.”
Still, some skeptics argue that the parade is just another example of American excess and consumerism. “What’s the point of spending all this money and energy on something so frivolous?” asks a social critic. “Wouldn’t it be more meaningful to honor Mrs. Ford’s legacy by addressing the issues she cares about, like social justice and education?”
The organizers of the parade have a simple answer to these critics: “Lighten up! It’s just a birthday party!” They point out that the event is entirely funded by donations and volunteer efforts, not taxpayer dollars. They also emphasize that Mrs. Ford herself is thrilled about the parade and can’t wait to see her community come together in her honor.
Ultimately, whether you think the parade for Hester Ford’s 116th birthday is a heartwarming tribute or a frivolous spectacle, there’s no denying that it reflects some fundamental American values: a love of celebration, a respect for elders, and a desire for community. Who knows, maybe someday there will be a parade for your 116th birthday too!
