National Centenarian’s Day is observed annually on Sept. 22. It is a day set aside to celebrate and honor those who have reached the age of 100.

The day was originally proclaimed as a time to partake in the rich history and wisdom shared by centenarians. Listening to their life stories is ever so inspiring. This is one day to be cherished by everyone to honor those among us who have seen a century go by.

The Johnson County Aging and Human Services Department recently hosted a “Coffee, Books and Conversation” event where participants had a chance to participate in a book-club-style gathering and discussed “The Book of Charlie.”

The book, which was written by local author and The Washington Post columnist David Von Drehle, finds the truth of living a long and happy life based on his conversations with his centenarian neighbor.