You never know when inspiration will cross your path on this island. We were treated to a double dose this week at the Kihei Aquatic Center.

The first sported bright yellow nail polish and was leading a senior water aerobics class in the center’s shallow pool. Kihei resident Nellie Martin teaches the class three days a week and has been for 24 years, since the facility opened in 1998.

At 89 years young, you’d think the bundle of joy and energy would take home the prize for eldest in attendance.

Not even close. Those laurels went to another Kihei resident, 99-year-old Betty Brooks. Though Brooks has yet to learn to swim, that did not stop her from hitting the water with 26 other students Thursday. In light make-up and with dark, finely coiffed hair, Brooks kept to the edge of the pool as she followed Martin’s instructions.

Watching from the bleachers, Brooks’ visiting niece, Lynne Burke, said her aunt was a waitress in California for 60 years. Working primarily at a barbecue restaurant and a steakhouse, she answered to the nickname, B.B., in honor of her likeness to the cartoon bombshell, Betty Boop.

Observing the grace with which B.B. churned the waters Thursday, it was easy to imagine her greeting longtime customers and jotting down orders, perhaps engaging in friendly sass. If there’s a thing we on service industry-heavy Maui have learned to appreciate, it is superior table service. We have no doubt, B.B. was a heck of a waitress.

Burke said her aunt is an excellent baker and well-liked by everyone. A lifeguard on duty called B.B. “the mayor.”        

“I live a very simple life,” B.B. said when asked the secret to her longevity.

She added that playing cards, particularly gin rummy, is one of her favorite pastimes.

When it comes to waitresses and Martin, it is easier to imagine them telling the water aerobics instructor to stop dancing on the tables, especially at Nalu’s, where she said she accompanies on musical spoons on Sunday nights. During some of Thursday’s exercises, Martin led group songs that included patriotic numbers and “You Are My Sunshine.”

She says water aerobics are a great way for both seniors and youngsters to improve their physical and mental health.

“It’s just good for you,” she said with a big smile. “It’s good for joints, heart and spirit.”

The thing about inspiration is, if you do not act on it, you lose it. Martin and Brooks are two great examples of why keeping active, being social and exercising regularly are proven ways to stay young at heart.

There are many free and low-cost activities at county pools, gyms and organizations like Kaunoa Senior Center. As we emerge from the pandemic, many are transitioning from on-line to in-person classes. Either way, they provide wonderful opportunities to be inspired.