OH, To Be 108 Again

The primary focus is older adults and spirituality. The title came from an article in the National Geographic magazine: The World's Oldest People. Commented a citizen of Equador, "Being 123 has it's limitations. Oh, to be 108 again." When older adults reflect seriously on life's journey they sometimes divide their years into four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, winter. Some think of their lives similar to a play in three acts. The author sees his life moving through four observable quarters: first quarter ages 1-25; second quarter 25-50; third quarter 50-75; fourth quarter 75 and older. These are not necessarily precise and could overlap. However, whatever quarter the reader may be in at the moment, consider these words: There are no wrinkles on the soul. 

In the 21st century, age 65 is no longer the conventional time to 'hang it up,' take it easy, and shift into an inactive mode. According to some studies in gerontology the fastest growing segment of the American population are the 90 year olds. A 100 year old person is no longer a rarity. As the over-all health of older adults keeps improving (thanks to medical advances, exercise, and healthy eating) the spiritual dimensions of life are often ignored or overlooked. Yet, inquiring minds have no age limit. Each chapter in this book addresses a question raised by an older adult. Here is a sampling: 

-Soul is a common word in our everyday language, but what do we mean when we use this word?

-Why is the Bible so hard to understand?

-Is this life all there is? What evidence do we have of an after-life?

-Why is it so difficult to forgive those who hurt you?

-What does it mean: Laughter is the best medicine?

-Why is the hymn "Amazing Grace" so popular"?

A unique feature of this book is 'A Spiritual and Ethical Wellness Checklist.' This is designed to assist each reader in identifying personal areas that could be cultivated for growth in spiritual and ethical wholeness. Likewise, the 'Questions to Ponder' at the end of each chapter are for personal reflection and for small groups, with a discussion guide is provided. 

The 'Foreword' by John Hinton (Emeritus Professor of Otterbein University) enthusiastically endorses the concepts, theology, and content of this book targeted for older adults. He writes: Throughout these chapters the author shares from his mind, heart, and soul many of his personal experiences interacting with 'senior citizens' as well as spiritual awareness from his private life. A powerful personal example from his retreat in a Trappist monastery is his Biblical meditation and insights from contemplative prayer.