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.
Now 85, looking 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. When we combine an awareness of our mortality with the unanticipated gift of 30 more years to live, we are sparking necessary conversations and decisions about living well, aging gracefully, and befriending death. The act of “retirement” is going onto the back burner.
No matter who we are, we all leave a legacy, whether we’re aware of it or not. However every one of us can leave a planned legacy. That is, IF we write down, or video tape, what we’d others to know about the life choices we made. As we walk the path into our later years, I’m here to encourage both the exploration and sharing of one’s history and lessons as a gift to those who wish to learn from their forebears.
The fact that I as a “journey guide” and “journey author” have reviewed my life in a way that is seen as useful to others on the path, is a real gift to me. Look forward to my next compilation of reflections: Encountering Age….Without a Map!
Musings Along the Way
In this set of books, published initially in 2002 and 2011, and republished in 2023, I reflect on my 11-year journey (1997- 2008) to hope and healing. Interestingly enough, folks grappling with the changes, challenges, the chaos in the world at large, as well as their own aging transitions, may find them an encouraging resource. We are not alone!
For me, I was “writing for my life” pouring out feelings which would ultimately help me heal. I encourage anyone to respond to their tough life issues in writing, painting, crying and laughing.
Volume 1 – Tears, Lies and Fresh Fruit Pies (1997-2001)
Volume 2 – Pain, Persistence and Purifying Waters (2002-2008)
Why Not Do What You Love?
This book was first written in 2010, after a search-for-healing visit to John of God in Brazil. The message in meditation was loud and clear. “If you do not write what you know, you will not heal!” The book wrote itself within 9 months. I took it back to Brazil for John of God’s blessing the next year. The healing process had already started.
Get the latest 2023 edition which does acknowledge that as we age, we better still be doing at least some of the things we love. All books are available on Amazon at reasonable prices.
