Nancy, Almost 70
Turning seventy in four days!
I read about this blog in the Taos Institute’s July 2012 Positive Aging Newsletter. I am delighted to find it just before my turning point in four days – a lovely birthday surprise! Turning sixty five and becoming Medicare-eligible was a turning point for me too. This was actually the first time I experienced some angst regarding aging. I am a counseling psychologist and organizational consultant. I worked primarily in medical centers and adult education. During the past five years I have learned more about and worked as a volunteer in the aging well field. I have been married for thirty four years, have two sons in their 20s who are still single and an extended family who live nearby. I hope for grandchildren in the near future. We live in the country near Seattle. I am active at Seattle University in multiple roles, volunteer in social justice and aging well projects, enjoy a robust spiritual, social and cultural life and delight in sailing the waters of Puget Sound and the Straits of Georgia.
I lead and participate in two aging well learning communities, one based in Ignatian Spirituality and one secular, which meet in-person monthly. One of them has met for three years. Being part of these communities is such a gift and opportunity for continued personal growth for all of us. We read books, view films, hold an annual Poetry Out-Loud Festival, have potluck dinners, go to community events and share our lives with one another resulting in laughter, tears, insight and rewarding relationships.
Turning seventy is a major transition for me. I am seeing myself as part of the “young-old” and have both gratitude and angst about the change. I am committed to age well with consciousness, courage and contribution. Having companions on the journey will help me follow through on that commitment. I am delighted by the invitation 70 Candles offers to join this virtual community. I accept with pleasure. Thank you for the invitation.
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I just read your post and would like to learn more about the aging communities you mentioned. I live in East King County and in the process of healing from knee replacement surgery and am pondering what’s next. As I am looking forward to what’s next, I am open to suggestions.
Hi! I’m also a Nancy whose birthday is on Friday… 70th. And I’m in Seattle. Would like to know you and the groups.
your website really help me lot in that. Thanks for publishing 🙂
Thanks for sharing this idea interesting blog, Please continue this great work.
Rusty Solomon