How New York City Got Its Juicy Nickname “The Big Apple” — And What It Means To The World

By Emeka Chiaghanam    

Life is an exquisite gift bestowed upon us by God, a divine treasure that warrants celebration. This celebration becomes even more significant when graced with the dual blessings of long life and sound health. It's a testament to God's generosity, offering us the opportunity to navigate the intricate tapestry of existence with vitality and well-being. In acknowledging this divine endowment, gratitude becomes a natural response, inspiring a continuous celebration of the precious gift of life.

Business mogul, Chief Christian Ibe  (Ugo UMUCHUKWU Ji Eje Mba), made these remarks during the commemoration of the 116th birthday of his father, Ogbuehi Simeon Omenkwu Ibe (Gbuoka Iyi) at the family's country home in Isiama Village, Umuchukwu Town, Orumba South LGA.

                       

He stressed that living a long life is more than just getting older. He maintained that staying healthy is essential, and when you combine a long life with good health, it makes for a better and more meaningful life. Chief Ibe believes considering a long life as a valuable gift can leave behind a lasting legacy of strength, wisdom, and happiness for both individuals and entire communities.

                                    

Chief Ibe said his father is known for his straightforward nature and unwavering honesty, a person of integrity, always choosing to speak the truth, “His character is marked by a commitment to honesty, and he never hesitates to share his thoughts candidly. This transparency not only earns him respect but also creates an environment of trust where people value his straightforward and truthful approach to life”

“In our community, my dad has earned a reputation as the go-to person for the truth. When people seek honesty, they instinctively turn to him, knowing he won't sugarcoat anything. He has a straightforward approach, fearlessly delivering the truth directly to your face. His credibility in being forthright has become a cornerstone, making him a trusted source and a respected figure in our community. My father is a remarkable and serene individual, embodying goodness and a deep appreciation for peace. His character is defined by his commitment to tranquility, and he values peacefulness immensely,” he said.

                        

Chief Ibe emphasized that his father's birthday celebration goes beyond just marking another year; defining it as a joyous celebration of life itself, “I want to express my heartfelt appreciation and celebrate him while he is still with us. It's a moment to cherish the wonderful person he is, acknowledging the impact he has had on our lives. Celebrating him in the present is a conscious recognition of the precious moments we share and the enduring legacy of love and wisdom he imparts,” he said.

He noted that his father has been blessed with robust health throughout his aging journey. Remarkably, he has never experienced a hospital admission, except for a hernia operation 15 years ago, maintain that his father’s enduring health is a testament to his well-being, showcasing resilience and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, “My father is enjoying excellent health even at his advanced age of 116, remarkable for not relying on any medication, equally noteworthy, his brother, at 105 years old, shares in the longevity and good health.

                                            

“My father is profoundly grateful for my efforts on his behalf and consistently uplifts me in prayer. He imparted blessings upon me long ago, envisioning abundant prosperity and a life where financial concerns would never be an obstacle. These blessings, spoken with heartfelt sincerity, have manifested in my life.  My father expressed that after God, I am the next most significant presence in his life for the care and support I provide. He foresaw a continuation of this loving care, believing that my children would go even further in reciprocating the kindness.

“I express profound gratitude to God for bestowing upon my father the blessings of sound health and a long life. Recognizing the divine gift of well-being and longevity fills my heart with immense thankfulness. I am grateful for the enduring strength, vitality, and the precious moments we continue to share due to this remarkable gift of life.

Chief Ibe extended his heartfelt gratitude to each person who joined in the celebration with him, maintaining that their presence added immense joy to the occasion, and prayed that their lives be filled with God's grace and favour.

Among personalities at the event was the TC Chairman, Orumba South LGA, Prince Neville Uchendu who expressed his happiness, articulating longevity as one of the most significant and cherished gifts within the human experience. Beyond mere material possessions and contends that a prolonged life provides individuals with the opportunity to amass experiences, wisdom, and contribute meaningfully to society.

                                             

He declared that those fortunate enough to experience longevity should express gratitude to God. He dismissed the notion that living a long life is a matter of mere chance, deeming it a divine blessing that merits acknowledgment.

Highlighting the importance of connecting with the elderly, prince Uchendu positioned it as a valuable opportunity to glean wisdom and life lessons from those who have traversed the passage of time. He stressed that engaging with older individuals is not only a gesture of respect but also a pragmatic strategy for enhancing one's understanding of life, its challenges, and its joys. Encouraging active engagement with the elderly, he suggested that such associations tap into the grace of a long life.  

                                    

Prince Uchendu further championed the idea that building connections with older community members fosters a sense of continuity and shared experiences. Spending time with those who have accumulated a wealth of life experiences, according to him, allows individuals to gain insights into resilience, coping mechanisms, and the art of living well. This, he suggested, could positively impact one's own journey towards longevity and well-being.

                                           

Prince Uchendu offered a heartfelt prayer, expressing a sincere wish that Pa Ogbuehi Simeon Omenkwu Ibe continues to live a life filled with fruitfulness, celebrating many more memorable birthdays.