A recent health scare in the family prompted me to think about our family genes and perhaps what the potential for living long might be. This story is a repost from a couple of years ago with a couple of added tips for longevity. Special thanks to my Aunt Marcie, my mother’s youngest sister, for unearthing the roots of our family history and preserving them in photo books—her work has given me the gift of connection to a past I never lived but deeply value.
Can you imagine living to be 114 years old?
In today’s world, that’s almost unheard of. According to global statistics, living beyond 110 places someone in the rarest category of human longevity—fewer than one in a million people live that long. And yet, over a century ago, my great-great-grandmother, Priciliana Carillo Tovar, did exactly that. She was born on January 4, 1830, and lived through two world wars, the invention of the automobile and the telephone, the rise and fall of empires, and the dawn of electricity. And she did it all before modern medicine, clean water systems, and preventive health screenings became the norm.
It’s astonishing to think about how much the world changed in her lifetime—and how strong her spirit must have been to endure it all.
Priciliana was married young, at the age of 14, to Miguel Tovar. From what I understand, she was a woman of deep and unwavering faith. Her values were passed down from generation to generation—like a sacred thread weaving through the fabric of our family story. I’m convinced her faith, purpose, and strong family ties were part of what kept her going for so long.
So what can we take from her life in our pursuit to live long and prosper?
It’s not just about living longer—it’s about living well. Living purposefully.
Here are a few things I’ve learned from reflecting on her legacy:
Faith and resilience matter. They anchor us when the winds of change blow hard.
Family and community are essential. Longevity isn’t just about biology—it’s about belonging.
Movement, mindset, and mission—all three keep the heart and soul young.
And perhaps most importantly: gratitude. A grateful spirit keeps the flame of life burning brightly.
I often wonder what my great-great-grandmother would say if she were here today. I imagine she’d smile softly and remind me: “It’s not how long you live, but how deeply you love.”
"Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and prosper..." —Deuteronomy 5:33
How about you? Who’s the oldest or wisest person in your life who has left an impression on your heart?
Let’s keep telling these stories. Let’s keep living with purpose.
Have a great day.
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