Thrive to 105

In the past year I have felt a sense of restlessness, sometimes disguised as excitement, and other times translated by me as a knowing of something that I couldn’t quite put my finger on.  Then, a few weeks ago, I was looking at my bookshelf next to my bed; and a book “called” me to pull it off the shelf.  The book was given to me by a dear friend; but I hate to admit that, soon after the sincere expression of gratitude for the gift, it was assigned a spot amongst my other great books that I’ve yet to crack the bindings on.  The name of the book is, The Second Half of Life; Opening the Eight Gates of Wisdom.

As I started to read it, my restlessness began to make sense to me.  There’s a lot of responsibility to ourselves that comes in our second half of life!  This book makes you feel positive and proud of being in this second half stage.  Angeles Arrien, the author, explains,

“If we truly understand what is required of us at this stage, we are blessed with an enormous opportunity to develop and embody wisdom and character.  We enjoy limitless possibilities to restore, renew, and heal ourselves.  And because of our increased longevity, for the first time in history, we also have the opportunity to create a map of spiritual maturity for future generations to use as they enter their own later years”.

She also charges,

“The second half of life presents us with the opportunity to develop increased depth, integrity, and character…or not.  The choice is always ours.  If we choose to grow and achieve ever-deepening wisdom, we must be willing to do the personal work necessary….”

Now, according to this author, this stage of our lives “requires that we come to understand what has been most significant and meaningful in our lives”.  Ms. Arrien also tells us that in this, the second half of our lives, “…a fundamental and primal shift from ambition to meaning occurs”.  She talks about how this shift can include a change in career, moving somewhere new or even relationship upheavals.

But here is the part that gave me a little “aha moment” in regards to that restlessness I mentioned earlier.

Ms. Arrien shares that:

“With this shift comes an initial restlessness, irritability, anxiety or discontent with our situation and a deep questioning of the motivation surrounding our choices in career and relationships.  Everything comes up for review.”

I have so far found the book enlightening, thought provoking, and challenging.  There are eight “gates” that we are supposed to pass through in order to reach our true potential during this time of our lives, starting with the Silver Gate, which is Facing New Experiences and the Unknown.  My intention is to do the personal work and pass through all eight gates in time.  Maybe you’ll want to join me!  I may even ask for help along the way!

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