In 2000, at 60, my writing life began. As a response to a life changing diagnosis of MS among other tough shifts, I started expressing my feelings in writing. It was rough and raw and extremely therapeutic. With time, I was encouraged to make my thoughts more widely available . By the time I had reached 72, three books were available, each of which seemed to resonate with readers.
At 74, there was another 2 x 4 to the head, in the form of my younger brother’s death. It was then that I realized that I, too, was mortal. I, too, would die. And more importantly, I had remaining days to either use well, or waste.
Now 84, as I look back, I’m aware that my more recent life and work has focused primarily on generating conversations about the often chaotic age stage transitions that occur when we accept our mortality. I am pleased that these changes, prompted by both awareness of one’s mortality and the unanticipated gift of longevity, are finally beginning to be recognized as necessary conversations and decisions about living, dying, mission, purpose and legacy.
My current and future focus is becoming clear. For those who are grappling with life’s finitude, as am I, there will be other book(s). I’ll keep clarifying to myself and sharing my reflections on the challenges and delights of entering a next chapter of life, or whatever the academics are choosing to call this later, perhaps final, stage of living.
In addition, I am convinced that there are important legacies that conscious agers can easily leave behind. As we walk the path into our later years, I’m here to encourage, among the willing, the courage, conversations, and life choices that matter.
The fact that I as a “journey guide” and “journey author” review life in a way that is seen as useful to others on the path, is a wonderful bonus for me. Each of my books is available in paperback and e-book through Amazon, or by contacting me.
