Aging As A Spiritual Practice
“The first truth of aging is also the first truth of Buddhism: Everything changes.”
Please read chapters 6 & 7 for this session.
We live in a culture that worships newness and youth. What does this mean for us as we age? How do we continue to find meaning and purpose in a world that often revolves around the interests, needs, and consumption habits of younger people?
Using Lewis Richmond’s book, “Aging as a Spiritual Practice: A Contemplative Guide to Growing Older and Wiser” we will explore these and other questions related to aging and spirituality.
Drawing from a deep well of religious and spiritual traditions, including Buddhism, as well as contemporary science and medicine, Richmond’s book will serve as a basis for our monthly discussions as outlined below.
Preparation Required:
- Participants will need to secure a copy of “Aging as a Spiritual Practice: A Contemplative Guide to Growing Older and Wiser” by Lewis Richmond. (Check your favorite bookseller or library. Links to online sellers can be found at https://www.lewisrichmond.com/author/)
- Reading ahead of each session (see program schedule below)
Program Session Schedule*:
Growing Older and Wiser
Sun. 10/5 – Read Intro.; Chaps. 1 & 2
Sun. 11/2- Read Chaps. 3, 4, 5
Contemplation on Aging
Sun. 12/7- Read Chaps. 6 & 7
Sun. 1/11 – Read Chaps. 8 & 9
Sun. 2/8- Read Chaps. 10 & 11
A Day Away
Sun. 3/15 – Read Chaps. 12, 13, 14, 15
*All sessions run from 12:00pm to no later than 1:15pm