MOST readers will have heard about the stoush in Canada between an Australian shop owner selling Vegemite and the Canadian authorities who wanted the product removed from shelves.
Apparently, because it contains added B vitamins, its sale was said to breach Canadian food regulations.
Vegemite was invented by a chemist in Melbourne in 1923, developed to fill the market gap caused by disrupted imports of Marmite during World War I.
It wasn’t until the 1930s that it was recognised as a good source of vitamins and later became a vital part of the soldier’s food supply during World War II.
Since then, Vegemite has become a staple in Australian homes. And who could forget the jingle that stood the test of time?
“We’re happy little Vegemites, as bright as bright can be,
We all enjoy our Vegemite for breakfast, lunch, and tea.
We love our Vegemite, we all adore our Vegemite – It puts a rose in every cheek.”
(Are you humming the tune?)
Happiness for seniors, however, is found not only in a jar of nostalgia. It’s often discovered through connection with loved ones and friends, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, living in the moment, finding purpose, and holding onto a positive outlook.
Even when faced with illness, joy is still within reach. While there may be pain, we can choose to accept our circumstances without letting them dominate our lives. The senior years come with challenges – physical, mental, and emotional – but like a coin, there are two sides to every experience.
Aging gracefully can be exhausting. But those who manage to find the best in every situation often inspire others to do the same. These are the people who shine.
Good Friday, just a few weeks ago, found me sitting in my favourite chair at home. Alone – but not lonely. The village was quiet. No one was walking about. My mind wandered, thinking of everything and nothing at once.
I was content, thinking of my grandchildren. One, in particular, who is a bit of a daredevil.
That moment reminded me: if we’ve raised our children to be thoughtful, bold, and capable, and their children in turn display wisdom beyond their years – then we’ve done our job as parents and grandparents.
And in that reflection, I realised – we really are all just happy little Vegemites.
