"In youth we learn; in age we understand."
Marie Von Ebner-Eschenbach
Maybe it's those wiry gray hairs popping through. Maybe it's the hormone shift that comes with menopause. Or maybe it's the simple fact that time is working its hands upon me and I am aging that fuels my desire to live my truths. When you begin to greet the last quarter of your life in the mirror each morning, something shifts inside of you. And one, oh, so pertinent question occupies my thoughts a little more each day: How do I really want to spend my time and energy as the days of my life wane?
Deeper reflection has made me realize that my aging years are not so much about what I want for me, but what I want for others. It is about what Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi calls "Saging" or "Spiritual Eldering." He is the founder of the Spiritual Eldering Institute in Philadelphia. He explains the ideal well: "Spiritual eldering means acting as guide, mentor, and agent of healing and reconciliation on behalf of the planet, nation, tribe, clan, and family."
Without even knowing it, the biological and psychological urges of my fifties have been moving me toward an archetype, becoming what the Rabbi calls a "Wisdom Keeper." A Wisdom Keeper acknowledges his or her life journey, the lessons they've learned along the way, and affirms that this information is of value, important to share with others, especially the next generation. We can choose to do many things with our aging years but can you envision an effort more worthy than serving as a Wisdom Keeper? Here are some guidelines for how you can begin.
Take Time to Reflect Upon Your Life
Journaling, I believe, is key to this process. Take twenty minutes daily to write about a memory you hold dear - a person, place, or event. Regular reflection on our past helps us to integrate what we've experienced with who we've become. If you get stuck, peruse a scrapbook or photo album for ideas to jump-start your writing.
Affirm What You Know
Another way to acknowledge your life wisdom is to fill a piece of paper with rapid-fire responses to the statement "This is what I know," meaning, the life truths you've acquired. You might be surprised at what emerges and how much you really DO know, and how others might benefit from that knowledge.
Spend Time with Your Elders
To carry on the torch, it is important to be able to convey collective wisdom - the wisdom of the ages. Arrange to chat with older relatives, neighbors, or seniors at a center to log their life knowledge into your heart before it is lost. A life untold may be a life unlived. It is our stories that inspire and heal one another, providing much needed courage for the journey.
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Speak Out - Reach Out
Within every neighborhood, school, or community are younger folks longing for support and guidance. From weary young moms to out of work mid-lifers. We're not talking advice-giving here, but presence-giving. Your wise, centered self can be a stabilizing factor in a bumpy life. Share what you know from an open-hearted space and offer your truths like seeds to the wind. Don't attach an outcome or expectations to these offerings because the assumption that your journey is their journey is vastly incorrect. A Sage knows that each person's journey is their own; each must travel through life in their own way. 'Listen, share, and let go' is a powerful precept that benefits both giver and receiver.
Turning our aging years into saging years provides a unique opportunity to serve others well in the twilight years of our lives. I hope you'll answer the call, too, and shareyour wisdom. I'm certain there are many who would benefit from your sharing, caring, and presence.
(For additional information on Saging, including training programs and resources in your area, visit www.sage-ingguild.org)
Janice Lynne Lundy is an inspirational speaker, interfaith spiritual director, syndicated magazine columnist, and the author of four self-help/spiritual growth books. Her newest is Your Truest Self: Embracing the Woman You Are Meant to Be (Sorin Books). Learn more about Jan at her website: www.awakenedliving.com. Join a growing community of awakened women at her blog:
www.awakeisgood.blogspot.com |
