At 90, Thomas Nicholas has lived a life full of stories, adventure and an unwavering zest for life. Living at Thornhill Manor retirement village, he shares memories of youth, lessons from history and reflections on what it means to age with resilience.
Adventures in a different era
Thomas’s stories from his younger days are filled with humour and a hint of mischief. One Friday night stands out in particular. Tasked with looking after a friend’s wife while the men went out, he embarked on a wild search across Johannesburg, eventually reuniting three couples at 3am. “I was standing there thinking: “What on earth am I doing?” he laughs.
Sunday meals were sacred, and Thomas fondly remembers an East African restaurant in Johannesburg, where curry and rice were a weekly treat. Music, too, has always been a cornerstone of his life. From playing piano and organ to becoming a ballroom dancing champion, he believes movement and rhythm are essential to happiness. “Even now, I listen to music every day while exercising,” he says.
Facing the trauma of history
Born during the Second World War, Thomas witnessed the harsh realities of global conflict. “It was traumatic with people getting killed, friends going away to war,” he reflects. Loss has been a recurring theme, from losing his mother and brother at a young age to the death of his wife and, more recently, his other brother. Yet, these experiences shaped his resilience.
He contrasts the freedom of his youth – walking safely through city streets at all hours – with the modern world. “These days, unfortunately, you can’t even drive down a street without being alert,” he notes.
Staying active to stay sharp
A lifelong sportsman, Thomas played table tennis and walked regularly. Despite health challenges, including cancer and major surgery, he continues to exercise daily. “I do 20 of everything now. Staying active keeps me going,” he says. Thomas contrasts his approach with the negativity he observes in others. “You must get outside, move, enjoy the air.”
Though fascinated by modern technology, he admits it can be challenging. He uses his phone primarily to stay connected with family, though mishaps have taught him patience. “Technology has advanced so much, I just can’t keep up,” he says. Even so, he embraces it where it enriches his life.
Lessons from a healthy life
For those seeking guidance from a man who has seen nearly a century of change, Thomas’s advice is clear: “Never smoke, never drink, live a healthy, clean life and do a lot of exercise. Look after your body.” His story reminds us that ageing doesn’t mean slowing down; it means continuing to live fully and embracing life with determination.
