“Young-old” with gratitude and angst

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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This entry was posted in About turning 70, Family matters, Gratitude and Spirituality, Looking ahead, Work life and retirement. Bookmark the permalink.

3 Responses to “Young-old” with gratitude and angst

  1. Shirley Kelly says:

    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.

  2. nancy laleau says:

    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.

  3. 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

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