Peggy Lee Brennan-Haberer, Ms. Senior America 2016

"Why am I here today? Because it's Never too late to dream a new dream, and it’s Never too late to live out an old one, It's Never too late to begin again, and it’s Never too late to make a new friend, It's Never too late to forgive, and it’s Never too late to fully live, It’s Never too late to love because God is love and love Never fails, So Never give up, because it’s Never, ever too late!”

I  received that philosophy in a dream the night before I had my initial phone interview for the Ms. Senior Missouri Pageant. I was hesitant to speak about it because I had not revealed my age to anyone in forty years. I knew if I won, it would be my “coming out’ party. The rest is history. My husband marvels at my new introduction at events: “I like coffee, I like tea, I’m Peggy Lee and I’m 63.”

Age does not define us, We are truly timeless, I’ve shared that message as I’ve been inspired by the strength, perseverance, loyalty, talents, warmth and love from the seniors and people I’ve met on my journey this year. The veterans events, nursing home appearances, TV/radio spots, parades, queen shows, fairs and state crownings have enabled me to see first hand that ‘America is great because its people are good.” The “Age of Elegance” that Senior America represents is truly about encouraging and imparting good, not just to seniors, but to all generations. I’ve loved performing with my sister queens and contestants who tirelessly give of their talents. I’ve shared in interviews with young female writers that ‘Its Never too late” for anything. I was privileged to mentor, One of the new state queens I crowned, who was 82 years young, shared how her life was about reinventing herself with each new phase.

I will always treasure the special moment when I was singing at a nursing home and Evelyn, who was bowed over in a wheelchair, raised her head to sing with me. Her nurse later told me she had never heard her speak a single word. I chuckle at the 89, 91, and 93 year~old trio at a Missouri event who backed me up with my Broadway medley, knowing every word and never missing a beat. Then, therewas the senior man who “groped” me at a New Jersey Christmas cameo performance. All of these memories bring a smile to my face. I’m motivated by the senior women in this organization who live to serve with passion and commitment.

A  special thanks goes to dear Dr. Al Mott and Betsy for their vision, inspiration, and wisdom, I’ll always be grateful for their kindness to my family and me, Kudos to every one of my Missouri Ladies. You are all my new friends and I’m so grateful to know you all. I appreciate the help along the way from Sherrie, Dr. Barb, Fran, Jim, Marshall Meadows, Rebekah Lane, and Touch of Class.

Lots of love to my incredible mom, Geoff, and Heleena who always give unconditional love, I feel so fortunate! Thank you to all of the fabulous people I’ve met along the way who have touched my life, I’ve been blessed to know Jesus Christ who Never leaves me or forsakes me. He “renews my youth like the eagle.’

One last thought: Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars, to change the world. Harriett Tubman

It's Never too late to dream a new dream and it’s Never too late to live out an old one.” Thank you Senior America for a dream, 43 years ago, fulfilled. I’m not closing this chapter, I’m just continuing to write a new one. God Bless you all!

Sincerely,
Peggy Lee Brennan
Ms. Senior American 2016