Eugenie Bitar, 100, from Lebanon is not your ordinary grandmother. Sitting behind her laptop she makes video calls with loved ones abroad that she hasn’t seen for several years. Bitar said today’s technology and internet is a gift.

“There isn’t anyone older than me, however there are many younger ones in this village,” Eugenie added.

Living through the last century into the electronic world, Grandma Eugenie is up to date with technology. Her 100 years of age has not prevented her from being active with her grandchildren’s generation. She adds to her vocabulary: “follow me on twitter… and Facebook.”

Grandma Eugenie challenges the new generations by entering their world of technology.
“I asked them [grandchildren] what is this? They said this is the internet which allows you to communicate with people abroad and the U.S. They are very young, 12 year-old kids; I told them to teach me to use it. They first mocked me, but then showed me how,” Eugenie said.

The internet is the platform that takes Grandma Eugenie beyond the seas to feel close to her loved ones since her old age has restricted her from traveling. She speaks to her children and grandchildren abroad and nothing makes her happier than seeing them live on Skype.

“Previously, we would send letters or make phone calls to communicate. I haven’t seen them for seven years. When we first got the television with sound, we said this is great.

Now with the internet you can now see your relatives sitting at home,” said Eugenie.

One hundred years have passed and Grandma Eugenie is still in good health and lives in Akkar, north of Lebanon.

We asked her about her secret to life, she answered:

“It’s being true to love and to your heart. Nothing can beat your kindness and people’s love,” Eugenie said.

Grandma Eugiene now lives with her son’s family. She lost three of her children, two during the Lebanese civil war.

We left Grandma Eugenie after she shared some love and kindness.

“I truly love you,” Eugenie said.











AL ARABIYA