Overview

This is a thought experiment in imagining ourselves as older than we are. We all know, there is only one guarantee in life: it will end. But we don’t like to talk about it and as a culture – loss of life can be painful and sad – we are ill prepared. Ageism and a “culture of youth” contribute to this difficulty in being realistic with ourselves about our growing older and our mortality.

45 minutes High School and Up Introspection

A journal, if desired.

  1. Set aside some time to complete the Growing Older Exercise, developed by the New York Yearly Meeting’s ARCH Program (Aging Resources, Consultation, and Help).

    This is a thought experiment in imagining ourselves as older than we are. We all know, there is only one guarantee in life: it will end. But we don’t like to talk about it and as a culture – loss of life can be painful and sad – we are ill prepared. Ageism and a “culture of youth” contribute to this difficulty in being realistic with ourselves about our growing older and our mortality.

    What stands out to you as you imagine yourself older?  In addition to the queries offered in the document, consider these questions as you think about growing older and building a meaningful and connected life:

    • What does the next chapter of your life look like?
    • What new paths would you like to follow as you imagine to growing older?
    • What lives on after you?  What legacy can you prepare to transfer to others?
    • How can you nurture and cultivate relationships to nourish and sustain you through this time?
    • What opportunities do you see ahead of you?

     

Growing_Older_Exercise

Credits: Used and adapted by permission of ARCH and NYYM.

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