[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 2 (Wednesday, January 21, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E20]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING MARIE O'BRIEN

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GINNY BROWN-WAITE

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 21, 2004

  Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor 
Marie O'Brien, a resident of my Fifth Congressional District of Florida 
and a woman who has become something very few of us ever will. Mrs. 
O'Brien is a centenarian and at 102 she is a shining example of how to 
enjoy and appreciate life.
  Mrs. O'Brien was born in Philadelphia and went to school at St. 
Gabriel. Following school, she worked as a telephone operator. She 
describes her happiest moments as family gatherings growing up and 
receiving the sacraments. Some of her favorite activities today are 
reading and praying the rosary.
  After 102 years, Mrs. O'Brien says she is satisfied with her life and 
that it has been a pleasure. When asked what advice she'd give to young 
people she said, ``Stay away from drugs and be kind.'' She says the 
best thing about growing older is having time to relax and appreciate 
the gifts God has given her.
  Mr. Speaker, and my colleagues, I ask that you join me in honoring 
Marie O'Brien today. I hope we all have the good fortune to live as 
long as she has. She is truly a great lady and someone with an 
appreciation for the importance of kindness and kinship.

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