A conversation with Ada Verbrugge (101 years old)
It’s a privilege to be able to interview my mother-in-law.
An abundance of memories
The story of Ada (101)
What a privilege it was to interview my mother-in-law. Here, in her cozy living room, she watches the seasons change outside her window. At almost 102 years old, Ada Verbrugge radiates a tranquility and wisdom that can only be earned from a life filled with experiences. Her story is an impressive mosaic of resilience, faith, and unexpected, heartwarming encounters.
A remarkable age, a unique perspective
“I’m Ada Verbrugge,” she begins enthusiastically. “I’ve been through a lot in my life. I’ve got plenty of stories to tell, you know!” Since her husband passed away, she’s lived alone for years in her new home. “And you might not believe it, but I’m almost 102! It truly is a special age, and I look back with pride on a life full of experiences and changes.”
I enjoy every day
Ada’s independence is striking. She fully embraces the freedom this stage of life offers her and cherishes the small, daily moments. “My home has two brand-new rooms with a view that’s always different, just like the seasons. I enjoy it every day, especially when the sun rises and lights up everything around me.”
An unexpected encounter that touched her heart
When I ask about her fondest memory, Ada’s face lights up. “Oh, that’s a tough one, because I have so many wonderful memories! But there’s one that really stands out, and I’ll always cherish it.”
The story that follows is unexpected and moving. “I was blow-drying my hair in a room at the swimming pool when a man suddenly came up to me. He said I had beautiful hair, and then we started a conversation that went much deeper than I ever expected. In a strange but beautiful way, we felt an immediate connection. He was also a man of faith, and that created a wonderful bond. It was as if we had known each other for years.”
This encounter clearly left a lasting impression. “That conversation made a huge impression on me because he was so interested in my life and was such a sensitive person. You don’t come across that very often these days.”
What’s notable about Ada’s story is the openness with which she talks about it. “My children always knew about it. And they understand and support me in their own way.” The man in question has a much younger wife, but that doesn’t make their bond any less special. “That connection has enriched my life in a unique way. I truly see him as a loving and respectful son.”
Faith as a foundation
What truly makes Ada happy, she finds in her spiritual life. “I’m content with my life of faith, that I live close to the Lord. It gives me peace and tranquility. And I’m grateful for the good relationships I have with the people around me, like my acquaintances who are always there for a chat or a cup of coffee.”
Her faith has helped her through difficult times. “Belief does indeed play a big role in my life and gives me a lot of peace. Sometimes I thought it might be easier without faith, but the Lord has always been in my heart, and that felt like constant support.”
Wartime experiences and resilience
Ada’s life was shaped by the Second World War, though she speaks of it without bitterness. “During that dark time, I made an arrangement with my mother’s sister, Aunt Co, in Apeldoorn, because it was safer there. My brothers were in hiding, and I traveled by bicycle without tires to Apeldoorn. My bike broke, and I had to walk the rest of the way.” Along the way, she received unexpected help from strangers. “Eventually, I was able to spend the night with a kind family, which helped me complete the journey and see my family again.”
Her attitude toward difficulties is remarkably positive. “No, I’ve always seen my life as an adventure. Every challenge has shaped me.” She even speaks candidly about a period of depression. “There was one period when I was severely depressed, but I found support at a club for women going through menopause. It was so comforting to discover that I wasn’t the only one with these feelings! That was liberating and helped me learn that it’s okay to be vulnerable.”
Daily inspiration
Ada’s recipe for living each day to the fullest is simple but powerful. “I am content with how my life is, and I want to wake up happy and face the day with an open mind. As soon as I don’t feel that way, I turn the switch and focus on the Lord in my life. That gives me strength again.”
She finds inspiration in people like Joyce Meyer. “I especially admire Joyce Meyer for her sparkling optimism and the way she shares her life with others. She encourages others to be open to faith and the joy it brings, and that really touches me.”
Trust and living in the now
Ada’s outlook on life is characterized by a remarkable trust in people. “I had a wonderful childhood and loved playing outside, where I made many friends. I never lost trust in people, even after difficult experiences.” Although she recognizes that not everyone thinks and acts the same way she does, this hasn’t damaged her fundamental trust.
She is realistic yet peaceful about the future. “No, I’m a person of the day and don’t expect my time to last much longer. That brings with it nice thoughts about coming together with the Lord and the eternal peace that comes with it.”
A life full of gratitude
The conversation concludes with Ada’s thoughts on her family. “Yes, I adore my two daughters, my dear son, and my son-in-law. I consider them a great blessing in my life. I feel blessed and find life to be good, with a beautiful view from my rooms that reminds me every day of the splendor of nature that I used to enjoy so much.”
At 101, Ada is living proof that a life full of challenges, losses, and changes can also be a life full of joy, connection, and gratitude. Her story shows that age doesn’t have to be a barrier to new friendships, personal growth, and a deep appreciation for the simple beauty of everyday life. In her peace and wisdom, we find an inspiring example of how to live with acceptance of what was, contentment with what is, and peace with what is to come.
@ Wim van Putten