[The Spiritual Side of Aging]

Q. We hear your newest book deals with the spiritual side of aging. The question we helping professionals hear from our aging clients is "Is it ever too late?" From age 50 to 90, a common theme is that people tend to think one can set foot on a spiritual path only when they are young -- whatever that means. They overlook the fact that age offers it's own gifts -- it allows us time, frequently unencumbered by the demands of earlier life, when we can devote more attention to becoming true to the inner dimension of life.

A. It's never too late. The new book provides a handy discussion guide in the Appendix that should help those who work with the elderly draw out this insight. However, if we helping professionals fear our own age, if our assumptions are full of ageist biases, then how can we encourage others with any degree of authenticity? Here is where your seeming problem resides.

A. I'm a life-care professional who's reviewed the new Don't Call Me Old... Here's my 2-cents: First, heal thyself! When I'm transmitting a robust inner vitality, then my coworkers and clients ask me, "What's your secret?" instead of bemoaning, "Is it ever too late?" I say let's share more stories like "EL" describes, for e.g., that inspiring octogenarian who is a leader to other elderly people.

Q. Just reviewed newest. Terrific. Are "we" taking on the death-dying industry (also laughingly called 'end-of-life-care' or lack of same)? MS seems to suggest interactive groups. How do we go about that?

A. Members: Any ideas? After reading Chpt. 4, please consider submitting your ideas! All input, including MS, is edited, and posted anonymously -- this in keeping with the nonegoistic, monastic tone of The Center.

A. Okay -- here's my idea: I'm a professor-type; I'm retiring soon and plan to use Don't Call Me Old... to teach a course for health care professionals, especially using the Appendix for discussion.

A. Re: "When is one too old....?" I say 'never,' with the added rule that as long as one can keep working -- I like your word "engaged" -- even in non-paid or part-time efforts, one stays alert. Ministers, counselors (etc.) who encourage others to move out or inch out into something meaningful are probably lively and motivated themselves.